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Nok Airline, one of Thailand’s low-cost carriers, has cancelled its flights to Betong International Airport just days after the Prime Minister’s opening of the first commercial flight. The airline said the event was prompted by marketing blunders.
On Monday, PM Prayut Chan-ocha and cabinet members joined the airport’s opening ceremony in Yala province by taking the first commercial flight operated by Nok Air, with goals to boost tourism and investment in the South.
“Due to the limited time given to promote the new route, the number of passengers was lower than planned,” Nok air said in a statement. The airline then decided to cancel its flights on March 16 and 18 due to lower-than-expected reservations.
“Nok Air has assured that it is prepared to operate flights along the route” said official Parinya Saengsuwan. He added that Nok Air will hold a conference later on Wednesday.
For compensation, the airline will fully refund ticket fees for passengers within a week, plus an extra 1,200 baht for advance cancellation notice, the official said.
Nok Air will also fly a special flight for influencers, including journalists, to promote the Betong-Don Muang route this Friday.
“We apologize to passengers who were affected by the cancellation… and for any confusion caused by recent news,” it added.
