Bangkok Airways delays the launch of its three new routes and temporarily suspends service on five domestic destinations in Thailand due to the ongoing outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in some regions of the country.

On December 5, 2020, Bangkok Airways announced the temporary suspension of its flights to three domestic destinations including Sukhothai, Trat, and U-Tapao from January 8 to January 21, 2021. In addition to flight suspensions, the airline also plans to reduce a part of operations on five routes including Samui, Lampang, and Chiang Mai from January 8 until February 28, 2021, as well as Sukhothai and Trat from February 1 until February 28, 2021.

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In addition, Bangkok Airways postponed the launch of three new domestic services from its main hub in Bangkok to Hat Yai, Khon Kaen, and Mae Sot which were initially scheduled to start from February 1, 2021. However, the airline was forced to delay the plans and outlined that the new route to Hat Yai would be launched on April 1, 2021. Direct flights to Khon Kaen and Mae Sot would be added to the service on May 1 and June 1, 2021, respectively.

The air carrier took the measures following the warning made by the country’s Centre for the COVID-19 Situation Administration. The authority indicated that some of Thailand’s cities have adjusted additional restrictions for travel procedures due to the increased sickness rate in some regions of the country.