I have been checking the air fares for HKG-BKK return and they seem quite expensive, around 600USD.
Any tips from FT'ers on how to get cheaper?
I understand there is a low cost airline, is it orient-thai? I'm not sure how good or safe they are.

There are some online specials on Cathay Pacific.

HKG -> BKK in economy for HK$2,450
http://www.cathaypacific.com/hk/booking/onlinefares/

HKG -> BKK in business for HK$4,850
http://www.cathaypacific.com/hk/offers/online/0,,41094-45257,00.html

One reasonable option is AY (Finnair), which does HKG-BKK 3 days a week..

Try http://www.internet.travel.com.hk

Thanks for the info guys, I'll check out the Cathy web site, I can get adeal with I think it's the Emirates flight but it is a redeye.

For mid february when I am thinking of travelling, Cathay quote 2650HKD for HKG-BKK economy return, which seems OK. I am thinking of using my Virgin miles to fly to Shanghai for a couple of days, then use Dragonair to fly to HKG for a couple more, then to BKK two days,then down to Pattaya for five days before flying back to London from HKG.

For cheaper flights, try Priceline Hong Kong

www.priceline.com.hk (http://www.priceline.com.hk)

Winning bids seem to range from $1000HK to $1400 HK. See:
http://pub34.ezboard.com/bpricelineasiadiscussions

Tonight I checked out the Thai site and there prices have dropped quite a bit.
Approx 170gbp econ rtn
300gbp busi rtn
350gbp 1st rtn
Sounds a lot better.