THAI introduces Service to Chengdu, the People’s Republic of China

On 2 January 2002. Thai Airways International Public Company Limited will launch its first flight on the route Bangkok-Chengdu v.v., the People’s Republic of China, as part of the Winter Schedule 2001/02.

Mr. Virabongsa Ramangkura, THAI’s Chairman and Acting President, said, “I am proud that THAI is one of the pioneering airlines to operate to Chengdu. The town has become increasingly popular among overseas visitors as it is a gateway to Tibet and houses a range of interesting sites and attractions. As for its ecological importance, Chengdu is the home of Giant Panda and other endangered animals species. Various world heritage sites are also found there,”

“THAI’s current services to 4 destinations in China have shown an increasing number of passengers over the past year, therefore, operating into Chengdu will further enhance the opportunity for both Thai and Chinese travelers to visit both Thailand and China as well to experience arts and cultures of the two countries. In addition, this will encourage overseas visitors to travel to Thailand, consequently boosting Thailand’s tourism industry.”

THAI will operate on the route Bangkok-Chengdu v.v., utilizing Airbus 300-600 aircraft, capable of accommodating 247 passengers: with 46 business class and 201 economy class seats. THAI is scheduled to operate 3 weekly flights to Chengdu every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.

Chengdu, being the capital of Sichuan Province in the People’s Republic of China has a population of almost ten million people, situated about 1600 kilometres due west of Shianghai. “Chengdu” could be translated as “Perfect City”. Chengdu is also considered to be the centre of civil aviation, where almost 20 of airlines are established, leading directly to Beijing, Hong Kong and every major city in the country. Only 150 kilometres away from Chengdu, in the Himalaya Mountains, are some of the last wild giant pandas left on earth. In addition, Chengdu’s cuisine has been described as “one of China’s most outstanding”.

Currently, THAI flies to 4 major cities in the People’s Republic of China - Kunming, Guang Zhou, Beijing, and Shanghai - offering a total of 31 flights weekly. Operations into Chengdu will consequently add to the list, making a total of 5 THAI’s destinations to the People’s Republic of China.