PHUKET: Two Russian aircraft have been impounded at Phuket International Airport in a dispute over payment of ''rent'' that led to two flights being cancelled yesterday.
The Nordwind Boeing 767s are grounded and accruing charges for occupying parking space on the holiday island.
Passengers due on Phuket to Moscow flights via NWS 2474 and NWS 2490 yesterday stayed on Phuket an extra night.
It's understood that two planes were organised for alternative flights from Krabi airport this morning to fly the stranded passengers back to Moscow.
Officials at the airline and at a tour company were reluctant to confirm the state of play of the dispute today.
Nordwind, founded in 2008, has its headquarters in Moscow and flies scheduled and charter to about 90 destinations.
It is used by the Russian and Turkish branches of tour operator Pegas Touristik. Planes carrying the brand's insignia are frequently seen at Phuket airport.
The Nordwind Boeing 767s are grounded and accruing charges for occupying parking space on the holiday island.
Passengers due on Phuket to Moscow flights via NWS 2474 and NWS 2490 yesterday stayed on Phuket an extra night.
It's understood that two planes were organised for alternative flights from Krabi airport this morning to fly the stranded passengers back to Moscow.
Officials at the airline and at a tour company were reluctant to confirm the state of play of the dispute today.
Nordwind, founded in 2008, has its headquarters in Moscow and flies scheduled and charter to about 90 destinations.
It is used by the Russian and Turkish branches of tour operator Pegas Touristik. Planes carrying the brand's insignia are frequently seen at Phuket airport.
With the Russian rouble having fallen from 1 to 0.55 against the baht in less than one year, I guess there is more to come. Russians will certainly be feeling the pinch now.
Posted by Pete on December 15, 2014 15:03