HK travellers returning from Thailand
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     More than 90% of Hong Kong travellers in Bangkok should have returned home by tomorrow, the tourism industry estimated after the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government issued a travel warning on Bangkok this evening (April 13).

     A Government spokesman said: "The remaining 10% or about 800 Hong Kong residents can contact their airlines if they want to return home earlier. More seats will be available to meet the demand from Wednesday (April 15)."

     "For individual travellers who need to return to Hong Kong early but have difficulties to obtain a seat on home-bound flights, they may call the 24-hour hotline of the Immigration Department at (852)1868, which will try to provide assistance as far as practicable," he said.

     In response to the Government's request, Cathay Pacific Airways has agreed to upgrade its Bangkok-Hong Kong flight CX702 to a bigger aircraft to provide additional seats to meet the needs tomorrow night. Non-Cathay Pacific ticket holders can purchase a ticket at HK$1100. The Government is thankful to Cathay Pacific for this special arrangement to facilitate the return of residents who need to go home early.

     The travel warning issued by the Government strongly urges Hong Kong residents not to go to Bangkok. Those who are already in Thailand, in particular Bangkok, should pay close attention to the situation there and stay away from large crowds or protesters. Residents who need assistance while outside Hong Kong may call the 24-hour hotline of the Assistance to Hong Kong Residents Unit of the Immigration Department at (852)1868.

Ends/Monday, April 13, 2009
Issued at HKT 23:49

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