The founder of AirAsia has strongly criticised Airports of Thailand's (AoT) passenger service charge (PSC) hike, slamming the inappropriate timing during the Middle East war and suggesting varying rates for different airports.The PSC increase for international flights was published in the Royal Gazette, paving the way for AoT to collect an additional 390 baht for a total of 1,120 baht, starting on June 20.
"I want to keep airfares low. If I keep putting up the fare, no one's going to fly," said Tony Fernandes, co-founder of AirAsia and chief executive of Capital A.
He said the group already raised the fuel surcharge by 20%, which still does not fully cover its fuel expenses as they have more than doubled since the US-Iran war started.
The airline decided not to raise its fuel surcharge further as it could hamper travel demand, said Mr Fernandes.
The group has cut flight capacity by more than 20% and moved planes out of its fleets, making its operation more efficient to cover surging jet A-1 fuel prices.
