ETW Staff – Mumbai
Thai Smile Airways, a 100 per cent subsidiary of Thai Airways, has launched new flights from Thailand to Gaya and Varanasi, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, and Lucknow. The flights have gradually started operations from Bangkok to Gaya and Varanasi from October 1, Bangkok to Jaipur from November 15, Bangkok to Ahmedabad from December 1 and Bangkok to Lucknow from December 17 this year.
Captain Woranate Laprabang, acting CEO, Thai Smile Airways, said, “We consider these connecting flights as one of our strategic destinations in Indian region. Thai Smile Airways is undertaking an ambitious growth programme to develop network and ensure international connectivity. Moreover, we are committed to ensuring that our passengers have greater choice and opportunity to discover new destinations by flying with Thai Smile Airways. Thai Smile Airways understands the need for passengers travelling among these five cities.”
The flight will operate with A320 aircraft which will offer a Premium Economy Class (12 seats) and Economy Class (154 seats) and feature services such as in-flight entertainment and Indian F&B options. All passengers of Royal Orchid and Premium Economy Class can enjoy a privilege lounge at Suvarnabhumi.
In addition, Thai Smile has chosen The Bird Group as its general sales agent (GSA) for the India market. The appointment was made with immediate effect. The Bird Group will handle the airline’s sales development, bookings, and ticketing services within India as well as conduct direct marketing and service support to Indian travel agents.
“By appointing The Bird Group, Thai Smile Airways aims to generate awareness of its product and services in India by strengthening relations with existing travel partners and forging new strategic partnerships with specialised operators in a number of various segments,” added Laprabang.
Vijay Bhatia, president and managing director, Bird Travels, stated, “The Bird Group is pleased and excited to be associated with Thai Smile Airways as their GSA in India. Thai Smile is a young and vibrant airline and subsidiary of Thai Airways which is a very well know brand in India among travellers. We are also honoured to have been selected to consolidate its brand in the India market and to increase sales through targeted, effective, and proactive actions. We look forward to a great working association with Thai Smile and are optimistic of making its operations a big success.”