Singapore Airlines responds

We would like to respond to Robert Eskapa's letter sent to The Jakarta Post.

We are very sorry that Robert Eskapa is unhappy with the fare of tickets that he purchased for his parents to travel from London back in December 2003.

It is correct that some airlines transportation and service is priced differently in different countries. Published fares, which are fares accepted by all carriers, are set by IATA, and governed by the national carrier of the country.

The fare that Eskapa later had checked was a special fare between London and Singapore. We are very sorry that Robert Eskapa had not known about this fare, neither did his agent inform him before the tickets were issued. Eskapa is welcome to consult us should he need to inquire about our fares in future.

As to his query on Krisflyer mileage, we would like to explain that our award program is exclusively for the benefit of the passenger who has enjoyed our service. The program is not designed for the party or individual purchasing the passenger's ticket. We ask Eskapa's understanding in this.

Again we regret deeply that Robert Eskapa had been incorrectly informed about the fare. Despite his unhappiness, we sincerely hope we will have the chance in welcoming him on board our flight again and restore his faith in Singapore Airlines.

CHAN CHEE CHONG Commercial Manager Indonesia Jakarta