Thai Lion Air Launches Inaugural Flight

The Thai carrier's twice-daily service on the route started today using Boeing 737-900ERs. These aircraft are configured with all-economy seats that are leather and come with 29in seat pitch. The carrier is the first to operate the 737-900ER in Thailand. The 737-900ER comes with the Boeing Sky Interior and is the largest model of 737.

Thai Lion Air CEO, Capt Darsito Hendroseputro, says the carrier has applied for international air traffic rights and aims to launch a daily non-stop service from Bangkok to Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur.

"The carrier's consistently low fares means people have the freedom to fly when they want to," says Darsito.

Thai Lion Air has two 737-900ERs in its fleet and plans to add two more in February. It had originally planned to add these two in March, but has since decided to bring deliveries forward. These additional aircraft will be used to increase frequency on existing routes and to launch new domestic and international services such as Bangkok-Hat Yai and Bangkok-Singapore.

Darsito says the launch of Thai Lion Air will help grow Thailand's air passenger market and reinforce Bangkok's position as a leading international air hub.

Prior to today's inaugural flight, the airline held a launch ceremony at Don Mueang International Airport where airline staff put on a performance for the assembled audience. In addition, there was a performance by one of Thailand's leading Lion dance troupes, as well as a drum performance.

Note: Thai Lion Air's schedule is as follows

For those leaving Bangkok Don Mueang International Airport depart 11:20hr and arrive Chiang Mai at 12:35hr. The other daily flight departs Bangkok Don Mueang International Airport at 15:40hr and arrives Chiang Mai at 16:55hr.

For those leaving from Chiang Mai depart 13:20hr and arrive in Bangkok Don Mueang International Airport at 14:35hr. The other daily flight departs Chiang Mai at 17:35hr and arrives Bangkok Don Mueang International Airport at 18:50hr.