By Philip Golingai

BANGKOK, THAILAND: AirAsia is offering 100,000 free seats to draw tourists back to Thailand after political turbulence saw the closure of Bangkok's two airports.

The regional campaign cheekily themed "Get your Baht to Thailand" is the budget airline's effort to help the Thai tourism industry which was severely affected over the last few months.

"We are here to make sure that the world does not forget that Thailand is a wonderful place for tourists," said AirAsia group chief executive officer Datuk Seri Tony Fernandes.

"We want to ensure that AirAsia brings people from Asean countries, India and China and the world - especially through AirAsia X - to visit Thailand."

"AirAsia was there during the Bali (bombing), SARS, tsunami and Aceh (when no airlines wanted to fly there) and with this promotion, we are showing our commitment to Thailand."

AirAsia's campaign, launched exclusively at www.airasia.com, starts today at midnight and ends on Friday for travel between Jan 6 and March 31.