AirAsia will connect Bangkok with Delhi and Kolkata from December 1, 2010.  While the Low Cost Carrier (LCC) will operate a daily flight on Bangkok-Kolkata route, the Bangkok-Delhi route will be served four days a week. To celebrate the launch, AirAsia has announced special inaugural fares starting from Rs 4,500 one way from Delhi and Rs 2,500 one way from Kolkata to Bangkok for travel between December 1, 2010 and August 11, 2011. 

Announcing the launch plans in Delhi recently, Tassapon Bijleveld, CEO, Thai AirAsia said that AirAsia’s low-cost model with its low fares and modern fleet will offer an attractive option strong enough to compete with premium airlines in the sector.  He informed that the fare offered by AirAsia will be cheaper by at least 20 per cent at any point of time. “We will have at least 30 promotional campaigns in 52 weeks,” added Bijleveld.

When asked about the capacity expectation from India, he said that unlike other markets, he is confident of achieving more than 80 per cent capacity on Indian routes. “The India – Thailand route is under-served, there is more demand than the supply. Travellers cannot get a seat easily and the price is also exorbitant,” said Bijleveld while commenting on the current demand and supply situation. He also mentioned that Mumbai is a priority destination for the airline, and hopeful of commencing operations between Mumbai – Bangkok or Mumbai – Phuket by Quarter Three of next year.