BANGKOK, Thailand – The Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB) is investigating airline overbooking and reviewing industry service contracts after a domestic passenger was denied boarding despite having a confirmed booking and paying for additional services.
The OCPB reported on August 17 that the flight had 191 bookings for 189 seats. The passenger checked in within the required period but was denied boarding after no other travelers volunteered to give up their seats. The airline offered 1,500 baht in compensation, an alternative flight, and a meal voucher, but the passenger declined and bought a ticket with another carrier.
Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office Supamas Isarabhakdi, who oversees the OCPB, has directed the agency to examine airline ticket terms, paid seat selection, pre-ordered meals, and advertising. Officials will also study whether airlines should be classified as contract-controlled businesses under consumer protection law, which could establish standardized terms for passengers. OCPB Secretary-General Ronarong Poolpipat has instructed officials to coordinate with the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand on passenger rights and contractual fairness. Under airline regulations, domestic passengers denied boarding because of overbooking are entitled to assistance, alternative travel arrangements, and 1,500 baht in compensation. Travelers are advised to retain booking and payment records when filing complaints with the OCPB or CAAT. (NNT)
