The national carrier of Thailand has long been regarded as a symbol of the country’s warm hospitality, cultural richness, and exceptional service. With a history spanning several decades, the airline has played a vital role in connecting Thailand to the world and establishing itself as a prominent player in the global aviation industry.
JOIN: AirlineRatings.com YouTube Channel
GET: Accurate MH370 Information From AirlineRatings.com Newsletter
SEE: GT’s Radar Slams Netflix MH370 Doco
Founded in 1960, Thai Airways quickly gained a reputation for its impeccable service, attention to detail, and warm smiles, embodying the country’s renowned “Land of Smiles” spirit. The inaugural flight took place on May 1, 1960, between Bangkok and Hong Kong and was operated by a Douglas DC-6B aircraft named “Sri Ayudhya.” The inaugural flight was a momentous occasion for Thailand, as it marked the country’s entry into the international aviation arena.
Route and Fleet
Since its humble beginnings Thai Airways has developed a robust network of destinations, connecting Thailand to major cities across all continents. Currently based at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, the airline operates over 50 international routes and 10 domestic.
Covid
Like many airlines, Thai Airways faced significant challenges in recent years, including financial difficulties compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the airline has embarked on a comprehensive restructuring plan to address these challenges and position itself for a sustainable future.
Onboard
The airline’s inflight experience showcases Thai culture, with the cabin crew dressed in traditional Thai attire and offering exquisite Thai cuisine ( though Western choices are also available). Thai Airways’ inflight entertainment systems and onboard connectivity are among the best and their modern cabin designs ensure that passengers enjoy a contemporary and enjoyable travel experience.
Safety
Historically the airline suffered two tragic crashes in the 1990s.
- Thai Airways Flight 311 (1992): On July 31, 1992, Flight 311, a domestic flight from Bangkok to Kathmandu, crashed while attempting to land at Tribhuvan International Airport. The Airbus A310 aircraft overshot the runway during a monsoon, resulting in 113 fatalities.
- Thai Airways Flight 114 (1998): On September 11, 1998, Flight 114, a Boeing 737-400 aircraft en route from Bangkok to Surat Thani, suffered a thrust reverser malfunction during landing. The aircraft veered off the runway, leading to the collapse of the nose gear and significant damage to the plane. Fortunately, there were no fatalities among the 146 passengers and crew members.
