The statement in full reads:
“At Phuket International Airport (HKT), we deeply value the trust and feedback of our passengers and remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring a transparent, fair, and enjoyable travel experience.
“In response to recent social media discussions concerning food and beverage prices at the Subway store in the departure lounge on the 3rd floor of the International Terminal, we would like to offer the following clarification:
“Following a thorough review, we confirm that the Subway store displays its pricing clearly and operates in compliance with the terms outlined in its concession contract. The specific case in question involved a customer’s order that included additional customizations such as extra meat and cheese, as well as cookies and beverages, which increased the total price beyond that of standard menu offerings.
“To maintain fairness and transparency for all passengers, HKT routinely inspects pricing across all food and beverage outlets. Additionally, we have reinforced to all concessionaires the importance of adhering to their contract terms while ensuring transparent pricing practices.
“Phuket International Airport remains dedicated to providing world-class service to every passenger. By emphasizing fairness, convenience, and safety, we continue to strive toward making your travel experience seamless and enjoyable.
“Thank you for your ongoing trust and support as we work together to enhance the journey of all who pass through our airport.”
Posting of the statement drew harsh criticism from a wide range of people, with comments posted in Thai and English.
One person responded: “The nauseating first sentence of your official statement is already a barefaced lie - there is nothing ‘transparent, fair, and enjoyable’ about this at all:
“Firstly you have the nerve to ‘confirm’ about pricing ‘clearly’ when everything is displayed ONLY in Thai, especially at an INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT/ TERMINAL?? Secondly despite the so-called ‘additional customizations’ that kind of pricing is still utterly ridiculous!!
“Phuket is only dedicated to fleecing innocent unsuspecting foreign travelers…”
Another person comments, also in English, “Everything and the price are insane in Phuket, don’t push people who really love Phuket away. The investigation result is totally different from tourist perception to the price level, please do not cover your ears whilst stealing a bell.”