Excellent news... (weaker THB, lower fuel prices, phew)

Back in black, THAI eyes good Q2

Thai Airways International sees bright prospects for air travel this quarter thanks to the weaker baht, but says it needs to continue reducing operating costs to maintain profit growth.

The airline returned to profitability in the first quarter, netting Bt4.54 billion, after drops in global oil prices, economic recovery in some parts of the world and its cancellation of loss-making routes.

The company suffered a net loss of Bt2.634 billion in the first quarter of last year.

Recent drops in global oil prices have led to more business operations, prompting higher demand for air travel. The US economy is beginning to expand in light of stronger fundamentals, while the European economy shows signs of strengthening with low interest rates and a weakening euro.

Charamporn Jotikasthira, president of THAI, said the carrier should see a good second quarter after depreciation of the Thai currency encourages foreigners to travel to this country, especially from China. The airline is yet to see significant bookings from overseas as it is currently the low season, but expects more inbound arrivals soon.

http://www.nationmultimedia.com/busi...-30259939.html