Thailand: Airlines eye international expansions

Thai airlines are reactivating stalled international expansion plans now that the ICAO has confirmed it is removing Thailand's red flag over safety concerns. At least three airlines affected by the restrictions said they will take steps to launch services to certain countries that have been observing the restrictions. Thai AirAsia X, Thai Lion Air and NokScoot said they will set in motion plans to operate new routes and use different aircraft types on flights to Japan and South Korea. The airlines expect to establish regular service to their target countries in the first half of next year, pending business plans and regulatory approval. Aviation leaders described the move as the dawn of a new era, liberalising the industry and regaining global credentials that were tarnished by the red flag status. <br/>