Thai Anti-Corruption Bureau Targets Former Airline Executives

Thailand’s National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has requested the Attorney General prosecute two former Thai Airways International (TG, Bangkok Suvarnabhumi) executives over alleged misconduct that caused a $10.6 million loss to the airline.

The accused, former Deputy Managing Director of Commercial Affairs Phrit Buphakham and former Director of Cargo and Mail Sales Poonsak Chumchuai, are alleged to have improperly authorized Thai Airways to cover Southern Air’s landing and navigation fees during a 2009-2011 ACMI cargo contract. The payments violated the agreement, which held Southern Air responsible for these costs.

The NACC argues that their actions constitute criminal offenses under Thailand’s Act on Offenses of Government Officials in Organizations or Agencies. It has submitted its findings to the Attorney General and urged Thai Airways to take appropriate action.

The contract in question involved a two-year block space purchase with Southern Air, utilizing two B777-200LR freighters. The agreement concluded in March 2011. Southern Air operated as an ACMI carrier until its merger with Atlas Air (5Y, New York JFK) in 2021.

The NACC alleges that Poonsak knowingly misled Thai Airways’ finance team, further compounding the financial losses. Both accused individuals maintain their innocence pending potential court proceedings.

This case highlights continued scrutiny of past financial and operational practices at Thai Airways amid efforts to recover from its financial challenges.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com