AIRPORTS of Thailand (AOT) is confident its decision to increase international departure passenger service charge (PSC) from 730 baht to 1,120 baht from June 20 onwards will not significantly impact travellers’ decision or choice of destination, PPTVHD36 said today (May 6).
The fee increase of 390 baht or 53% applies to all six AOT airports – Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Mae Fah Luang in Chiang Rai, Phuket and Hat Yai. However, the domestic PSC will remain unchanged at 130 baht per passenger.
Ms. Paweena Jariyathitipong, AOT’s president and CEO, said while hiking this fee would inevitably affect airfares, numerous studies including AOT’s research show it will not lead to travellers changing their mind or opting for a different destination.
“Regarding PSC, AOT has considered and studied it in accordance with ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organisation) aviation standards. All costs are based on sound principles and facts. We have no concerns. We affirm and promise to expedite improvement of airports to provide better service to passengers,” she said.
What currently affects airfare is more so the price of fuel with AOT having already anticipated and prepared for this war-like situation.
Paweena emphasised that increased revenue from hiking this PSC will be used to develop the airports it manages and not channelled to compensate for loss of revenue through King Power cancelling its Duty Free concession contract.
At the same time, a review is underway regarding appropriate non-Aero (non-airline) expenses that will benefit the government, operators, and the public.
CAPTION:
Survarnabhumi Airport, above, and Samui Airport, Front Page. Above photo – NNT, Front Page photo – Samuiairport.com
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