Bangkok: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, addressed concerns over airfare and train fare pricing, clarifying that current flight ticket prices remain within legal limits. During recent flooding in Hat Yai, Mr. Phiphat emphasized that ticket prices did not surpass the ceiling set by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT). He also engaged with Mr. Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth from the Thai Airlines Association, urging airlines to increase flights and provide special pricing for affected regions like Hat Yai and southern routes.
According to Thai News Agency, airlines, including Thai AirAsia, have added more flights, thereby increasing seat availability and subsequently reducing ticket prices following market dynamics. This move aims to alleviate the financial burden on travelers during the crisis.
Mr. Phiphat also addressed public complaints regarding Red Line train fares, which reportedly exceed the government's announced 40 baht all-day fare, with charges reaching 42 baht. He asserted that the 40 baht fare should be adhered to and announced an immediate investigation into this discrepancy. When questioned about the 2 baht excess potentially being a service charge or tax, Mr. Phiphat firmly denied this, committing to a thorough examination of the matter.
Furthermore, he acknowledged oversight concerning special pricing policies, which currently favor EMV cardholders, and promised swift action to address the needs of the wider public who may not possess such cards.