Thai Airline Passengers Get More Rights

Passengers on all Thai airlines have been awarded additional rights through a new series of legal requirements set by government officials.

Based on the new regulations from Thailand’s Transport Ministry, all airlines operating in the Asian country will be more accountable to their passengers in areas such as canceled flights or lengthy flight delays, The Bangkok Star reported Saturday.

While the new rules will force airlines to take additional steps to honor passengers’ rights, Department of Civil Aviation official Chaisak Angkasuwan said they remain reasonable.

It is fair for both passengers and the service providers, the aviation official said.

The Star said the improved regulations were modeled after recent rules implemented by the European Union, with the aim for both legislative efforts being that passengers understand the problems associated with air travel.

Among the added rights of Thai air passengers are complimentary hotel stays should their flight be delayed by more than a day and appropriate refreshments for travelers during delays.