Hat yai: Hat Yai flight tickets have sold out as people rush home, with the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) clarifying that no airlines are exploiting the situation. The sudden surge in demand has led to the exhaustion of cheaper seats.
According to Thai News Agency, the flood situation in the southern region of Thailand is rapidly improving. Many citizens and officials are opting to travel to Hat Yai by air, as it offers a quicker and operational mode of transportation. This is crucial for those aiming to care for their families and properties and for officials involved in disaster relief efforts.
Mr. Saran Benjanirat, CAAT Deputy Director of Aviation Economic Development, highlighted that a significant number of ticket purchases have been made in a short span, resulting in both economy and regular-priced seats being quickly sold out. Consequently, the remaining seats are priced higher due to the fare structure, adhering to the Dynamic Pricing mechanism that aligns with international airline revenue management standards. CAAT has engaged with airlines to expand passenger assistance measures and manage ticket prices to minimize impacts, facilitating travel to disaster relief areas.
To maintain clarity and transparency, CAAT has summoned all airlines operating flights to the southern region to explain their procedures. The airlines have assured that if a flight is canceled, passengers will be compensated under Civil Aviation Board Regulation No. 101, offering a full refund or free flight changes. However, if the flight proceeds but passengers choose not to travel, airlines will permit a free change within a specified timeframe. Passengers can directly contact the airline for assistance. Those not covered under Regulation No. 101 can lodge complaints at complaint.caat.or.th.
Following the Prime Minister’s directive to investigate complaints regarding airline practices, CAAT has reviewed its complaint system over the past month. No complaints were found concerning any flight route, nor was any passenger exploitation detected during inspections. CAAT, alongside other complaint-handling agencies, will continue investigations to ensure compliance with the law and prevent public harm.
CAAT will monitor pricing, travel volume, and complaints closely, taking action within its authority should any legal violations be identified. The agency will also expedite coordination with airlines to ensure convenient travel to the southern region during the flood recovery period.