Tourism, airlines hardest hit

Damage to the business sector caused by floods affecting several areas of the country since early last month is now estimated to have topped 50 billion baht (S$2.16 billion), according to the Federation of Thai Industries. The tourism and airline industries are among those hit hard by the natural disaster, especially in the southern city of Hat Yai and the Samui Island in Surat Thani. Bangkok Airways, Nok Air and Thai AirAsia have either suspended or reduced flights.