Santisuk Klongchaiya, chief executive of Thai AirAsia

Santisuk Klongchaiya, chief executive of Thai AirAsia (TAA), said 2021 will be the year that TAA becomes stronger in every aspect after the airline has survived the toughest turbulence this year.

He said once the economy is restarted next year, TAA is expected to emerge from the crisis by starting afresh with new opportunities it has commenced since the time of crisis.

TAA, like all airlines globally, has been operating in the only remaining market, serving domestic passengers. At the end of 2020, TAA is serving 40 routes across the country, higher that the pre-pandemic schedule as it has expanded to a second aviation hub in Bangkok at Suvarnabhumi Airport.

“Airlines and tourism will still be essential parts for economic recovery as we can help connect international arrivals to Thailand, for travel or medical purposes, particularly after people are vaccinated,” he said.

Mr Santisuk said when international tourists start to come back, Thailand should maintain stringent health safely measures. All related parties should strictly comply with the standards, while regulations themselves must be strong enough to curb risks.

“If we can be disciplined, the aviation business will gradually improve,” he said.

Apart from external factors, the airline has to maintain operational excellence by keeping high safety standards and on-time performance.

As a part of AirAsia group, TAA will also expand its business from aviation to digital services with an aim to establish AirAsia.com as a super app that can cater to various products, such as online bookings, and provide more cargo services.

“Thai AirAsia will not be limited to the air travel service, but will develop new opportunities to strengthen our company at all times,” he said.