This percentage is lower than the seven per cent driver’s representatives had demanded, but is seen as a reasonable compromise. Along with the fare rise, the service fee for taxis from the city’s two international airports is set to increase.
At present, the service fee for passengers taking taxis from either Don Muang or Suvarnabhumi airports is a flat THB50 regardless of the size of the vehicle. Transport-minister Prajin Juntong says that the fees will rise in July, but he has asked the Airports of Thailand to pay the fee to drivers for the first six months.
So in effect, passengers boarding taxis at either of the airports will probably not pay higher fares until the New Year. The fees will then rise to THB60 for four-door saloon cars and THB80 for larger vehicles such as seven-seat estate cars. The drivers had originally demanded fees of THB75 for saloons and THB95 for anything larger. This was rejected by the ministry as it was considered too high.
Thai transport minister okays fare rises for taxis in Bangkok
News in Asia
Thaland’s Transport Ministry has given the go ahead for a rise in fares for Bangkok taxis which will be effective from next month. Fares for metered taxis in the national capital will go up by five per cent.