Log in

View Full Version : Thai Smile Being Spun Off From Thai Airways International - What happens to pilots?

Iver
4th Dec 2013, 13:33
The news that Thai Smile is being spun off from Thai Airways International does not surprise me much. It needs to focus on growing its LCC business and spinning off could help accelerate growth (potential IPO down the line)...


With that said, I always wonder about the pilots in these cases. Are the current pilots flying for Thai Smile actual Thai Airways International pilots or are they operating under a separate contract? Are they being given the option of returning to the mainline job? Will they be permanently separated from the mainline carrier once the airline is spun off or have the option of returning?


Just curious but appreciate any insight. Hope it works out well for all involved. See article below:


Thai Airways International will make its subsidiary Thai Smile totally independent (http://www.traveldailynews.asia/news/article/54199/thai-airways-international-will-make)
Iver
4th Dec 2013, 23:18
Wow! 300+ views and no comments.... Echo echo echo

I had no idea this was classified information... :{. Just wondering how this would impact the Thai Smile pilots.
joy16
6th Dec 2013, 16:30
Thai smile pilots were new recruited pilots and they are operating under a separate contract from THAI pilots.
Iver
8th Dec 2013, 13:38
Cheers Joy16! That was the answer I was looking for.

I wish them all well in a very competitive market!
wheels_down
9th Dec 2013, 05:35
Bringing in long haul aircraft is not the answer, AirAsia's long haul operation is marginal at best. The 777, especially the older birds are not exactly fuel efficient.

Keep it simple, low cost A320 flights under 5 hours, and keep that cost base under control. To be competitive with the likes of AirAsia they need a cost base competitive.

Tiger/AirAsia/Jetstar A320 operations are good examples of the basic low cost model. Thai Smile still does not scream out "LCC" to me.
kwaiyai
9th Dec 2013, 08:39
Didnt know Air Asia X operated 777's. Thai Inter is Thailand's National carrier, Nuff said.No way that Thai Smile smile can compete with Tony's lot but having said that Thai AA cancelled there Mandalay route where as TG Smile is still operating it.