THAI Resolves Dispute Between Pilots and Union

Acting BKKDD/ Mr. Somchainuk Engtrakul, Acting President of Thai Airways International Public Company Limited, revealed that a common agreement has been reached between THAI's pilots and Thai Airways International Union, the employee union. As for wording featured in the union's flier, it was not stated whether either party was right or wrong but requested all those concerned not to view matters in a negative light.

As well, it stated that THAI's pilots are of high quality and have received worldwide recognition. In addition, it was mentioned that THAI's pilots earn lower salaries when compared with other air carriers - the highest salary earned by THAI pilots being approximately THB 200,000 baht per month. As for THAI cabin crew or employees with other responsibilities, their salary is considerably lower than those at other air carriers. As a result, THAI's Management is taking this matter under consideration for future improvements, to coincide with plans to revise the airline's organizational structure.

As the airline industry is currently experiencing a crisis with industry-wide impact, particularly with regard to insurance coverage and jet fuel prices, both of which have increased substantially, both THAI pilots and the union have come to an agreement to resolve their previous differences. Both parties have agreed to the work towards the airline's common good, especially in the face of difficulties being experienced by the airline industry overall. THAI's Management has called for a meeting to assess the impact on the travel and airline industry resulting from the global crisis, so that further measures may be implemented.