Southeast Asian airlines spend big to cash in on return of travelers

BANGKOK/HANOI/MANILA — Bouncing back from pandemic-era losses, Thai Airways International and other Southeast Asian carriers are signing big aircraft purchase deals in a race to capture demand as tourists return to the region.

Thai Airways said it is set to complete restructuring by the end of 2024, a year ahead of schedule thanks to improved finances. This will enable the carrier to relist on the Thai stock exchange.