Tiger Tamed, Thai To Smile
Lots of T's in this headline. In a nutshell the fledging venture between Tiger Airways and Thai Airways International has been binned.
But in through the outdoor steps in Thai Smile Air. We won't comment on the name but the upstart is expected to take to the air by mid 2012.
Tertiary domestic routes will come into service first and then regional destinations.
As for Nok Air, one could argue the airline which Thai has a reported 39% stake is underutilized but never mind, let's go ahead and start yet another carrier.
While Thai is bucking the LCC trend with Smile as it is looking at premium light – and not the budget space, so business class seats will be available.
We do assume someone has actually thought out the new plan better than the ill fated Tiger's tale.