Uncertainty hangs over Bangkok-Betong route as Nok Air considers its options

Nok Air’s flights between Bangkok and Betong, in the southernmost province of Yala, could be in jeopardy, as the carrier considers its options. The struggling low-cost airline is incurring financial losses on the Don Mueang to Betong route, according to Nok Air CEO, Wutthiphum Jurangkool.

According to a Bangkok Post report, the airline expects losses to reach 40 million baht by July, even with a reported load factor of around 90%. The carrier currently operates 3 flights a week between Bangkok and Betong. Nok Air says the expenses associated with running the route are high and the government has been asked to help subsidise the costs, in addition to lowering service fees at airports used by Nok Air.

The government currently part-subsidises the airline, but the surge in fuel prices has added to Nok Air’s financial woes, particularly on flights to Betong, which take an hour and…