Thai Airways will expand its cargo services in order to promote Thailand’s fresh fruit and vegetable products to Asian and European markets.

Thailand’s national carrier Thai Airways, in cooperation with the government ministries of commerce, agriculture and transport, would reportedly concentrate on delivering seasonal fruit and vegetables to promote the country’s fresh products and generate revenue.

According to the Nation, Suvadhana Sibunruang, vice president of Thai Airways aviation business unit and acting managing director for cargo, mail and commercial flights, said “the airline was cooperating with the Thai government to facilitate more fresh produce exports to generate revenue for growers, exporters and itself.”

"We have asked the Commerce Ministry to give us information on the trend of fruit and vegetable exports because the airline is currently operating semi-commercial flights and expect the cargo business to generate revenue next year,” Sibunruang said.

Somdet Susomboon, director general of Thailand’s Department of International Trade Promotion, said that over the next 12 months, Thai Airways would help the country’s produce reach key markets, including Hong Kong, South Korea, Japan, and several European countries.

Thai Airways previous recovery initiatives

Since the beginning of COVID-19 pandemic, Thai Airways experienced a great revenue loss due to decline in Thailand’s tourism and closed international flights. 

After recently reporting a huge third quarter net loss reaching $711 million (21.53 billion baht), the airline has put 34 airplanes up for sale.

However, with the government's bailout, Thailand’s national flag carrier also designed original initiatives to boost the airline's recovery.

Firstly, Thai Airways opened a pop-up restaurant in its Bangkok headquarters, so the customers who miss eating plane food could enjoy in-flight meals. 

Additionally, Thai Airways joined the number of airlines selling flights to nowhere, which have become a trend particularly in Asia.