Lao Airlines eyes increase of passengers on central, southern routes

The central and southern provinces have now became strategic destinations for the Lao Airlines following the recent suspension of flights between Vientiane and Oudomxay.

Passengers boarding an aircraft operated by the Lao Airlines.

“With the decline of passengers and the unfavourable exchange rates, we regretted suspending these flights. However, the airlines has increased flights for Savannakhet routes from three times a week to one flight a day,” the Director of the Lao Airlines’ Commercial Department, Mr Noudeng Chanthaphasouk, told Vientiane Times.
He said flights on the central and southern routes have a significant record of 70 percent to 80 percent of passengers, amid the decrease of flights on some northern routes.
“The reason for an increase of passengers in flights on these routes is that they save a lot of time. Travellers from Vientiane save more than one hour and avoid the undergoing improvement of some sections of the National Road No 13 South,” he said.
Mr Noudeng said it was not only Oudomxay alone that showed a sharp downturn in passengers. Flights on the Luang Prabang route have decreased from three times a day to just one flight because of a drop in the number of passengers.
“On the contrary, Luang Namtha, one of the northern routes, still has more passengers because the railway stations are located quite far from the city centres. So, two flights are operational each day to this destination,” he said.
Though Lao Airlines has suspended flights for some routes, domestic low-cost carriers such as Lao Skyway are still providing regular flights for passengers.
When asked about the status of Lao Airlines employees at the Oudomxay office following the suspension of operations, Mr Noudeng said the Board of Directors has offered multiple options for them. The employees can choose to be stationed at Vientiane or be sent to other provinces of their choice.
“If they prefer to quit the job, the airlines is willing to compensate them with wages for three months and welfare benefits,” he added.
Lao Airlines is one of five state-funded enterprises that have been listed for reforms and the move was approved by the National Assembly (NA) at a recent meeting as part of the government’s efforts to support the national agenda for tackling economic and financial difficulties.
The government has set up a reform committee to ensure that the national flag carrier becomes self-sustained in financial management, more profitable, and professional in its business operations.

By Times Reporters
(Latest Update October 7, 2022)