Thai Airways to launch LCC by mid-2013: report

Thai Airways reportedly plans to launch a low-cost carrier in partnership with Nok Air by mid-2013, according to The Nation. The airline will focus on the regional market. Thai Airways acting president Chokchai Panyayong said Nok Air hired a consultant to conduct a feasibility study for the proposed carrier, with findings to be finalised by the end of Jul-2012. The airline would be created as a JV between Thai Airways and Nok Air with a registered capital of THB200 million (USD6.35 million). Thai Airways would be the majority shareholder. The branding of the carrier will not include 'Thai' in order to provide it a more international image, according to Mr Chokchai. The airline will assist Thai Airways to strengthen its market position ahead of Asean open skies in 2015.