Jabr Al-Azeeby says the number of inbound travellers is increasing and, if this continues, Emirates expects traffic to return to the same level as a couple of years ago.
Despite fierce competition in the aviation industry fuelled by low-cost carriers, Emirates Airline is confident of enjoying increases in both inbound and outbound traffic at its Bangkok operational base, mainly as a result of its passenger-friendliness and the services available on its A380 fleet.
"We are optimistic about the upcoming months as the Songkran festival is a busy travel period. Inbound travellers are increasing and, if this continues, we expect traffic to return to the same level as a couple of years ago," Jabr Al-Azeeby, area manager for Thailand and Indochina, told The Nation this week.
He said business had been very good since the second half of last year, with Dubai-headquartered Emirates Airline witnessing increases in both inbound and outbound traffic.
"During this time, the most popular destination for Thais is Hong Kong … and the relatively short flight is made even more comfortable on the passenger-friendly Emirates A380," he added.
Even though major airlines in the region are facing a tough situation as a result of price-led competition from low-fare carriers, Al-Azeeby insisted that Emirates Airline did not compete with those carriers as it had a different business model.
"Our clients prefer full-service carriers and on Emirates passengers stay connected using Wi-Fi throughout the flight, experience over 2,000 on-demand entertainment channels and enjoy award-winning meals," he said.
On top of that, the airline is targeting Thai families to visit Dubai under a collaboration deal with the emirate's Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing.
Emirates Airline is working closely with the department to offer promotions such as short breaks in Dubai for travellers flying on to Europe and other destinations in its network, said the area manager.
The packages include hotel, transfers, visa and other free amenities with competitive prices as low as US$50 (Bt1,600) per person for a Dubai stopover.
"Thailand is in a key position in Asia for Emirates and our operations in Bangkok span more than 20 years," he added.
Emirates Airline has up to six daily flights in and out of Bangkok, against just four two years ago, as the airline sees strong opportunities for growth in the Thai market.
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