[wowpow]

Budget carriers `must shape up'
Bangkok Post, Manop Thip-Osod

The Transport Ministry has ordered operators of budget airlines to improve customer services, their image having been tainted by reports of frequent delays, and allegations of questionable levels of flight safety. The order came on the second anniversary of the maiden flight by budget carrier One-Two-Go. Transport Minister Pongsak Raktapongpaisal said it was ministry policy that all budget airlines shape up in order to meet, if not surpass, all relevant standards. The improvements would boost confidence among local and international passengers and help ensure the country became a regional aviation hub.Mr Pongsak said he had assigned deputy permanent secretary for transport Kumropluk Suraswadi to monitor and evaluate the performances of all budget airlines.

``Passengers still complain about the service of low-cost airlines. Operators must raise standards of service to ensure customers are totally satisfied. More importantly, improvements will be in line with the government's policy to upgrade the country's aviation standards,'' he said. The minister expects fewer complaints about flight delays in the future.

Existing aviation regulations require airlines to seek prior permission from the Aviation Department if they wish to cancel flights. They must inform passengers at least 24 hours before cancellation. In the case of flight delays, airlines must arrange alternative flights for passengers. If there were no alternative flights available, passengers ought to be asked if they would be willing to fly from the nearest alternative airport. Airlines must meet all transfer expenses, and must refund the cost of the ticket in full should passengers not agree to take an alternative flight.

http://www.bangkokpost.com/News/05Dec2005_news10.php
[url][/url]

[Elephantspike]

bump