Thaworn 'confident' in THAI's rehab plan

Deputy transport minister Thaworn Senneam has expressed confidence that loss-ridden THAI will be able to stage a turnaround and start making profits within 3 years. The carrier is undergoing a rehabilitation plan, including cutting back on internal expenses and boosting digital marketing, he said after a meeting with THAI and Thai Smile Airways executives Thursday. THAI president Sumeth Damrongchaitham said staff are gathering additional information on the airline's plan to buy or lease 38 new aircraft, estimated to cost THB130b, before sending the details to the cabinet for approval. He believes the rehabilitation plan will pay off and THAI will start to make a profit within 3 to 5 years. The rehabilitation plan is aimed at addressing its almost THB100b debt that has accumulated over the past 10 years. <br/>