BANGKOK, 1 July 2011 – Free services on public buses and economy-class trains have been extended while the Thai Airways International (THAI) has affirmed not to raise its ticket prices despite the expected increasing Passenger Service Charge (PSC).
State Railway of Thailand (SRT) Governor Yutthana Thapcharoen said the SRT board has resolved to extend the relief measure providing low-income earners with free service on economy-class trains in order to help shoulder their financial burdens. The measure was scheduled to expire on 30 June 2011.
Mr Yutthana pointed out that the measure has been extended for further four months, starting from 1 July, after which, the new government will decide whether it should be continued or terminated.
Meanwhile, Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) Director Opart Petchmunee said the BMTA board of directors has approved to extend the free public buses measure, starting on Friday onwards as well.
Regarding the Airports of Thailand Plc’s plan to increase the Passenger Service Charge (PSC), THAI President Piyasvasti Amranand said both air ticket prices and fuel surcharge of the airline will not be raised despite the higher PSC.
Mr Piyasvasti added that the number of passengers is currently in a satisfactory level. During 1-27 June 2011 the number expanded by 9% year-on-year while the amount of advance booking also increased.
