History of Thai Airways
Thai Airways International was founded in 1960 as a joint venture between Thailand’s domestic carrier, Thai Airways Company (TAC), and Scandinavian Airlines System (SAS). SAS initially provided a 30% share capital of two million Baht. The Thai government through TAC held 70% of shares in Thai Airways International Company Limited, registered with a capital investment of 20 million Baht.
The airline’s first flight was on May 1, 1960, from Bangkok to Hong Kong. In 1971, Thai Airways became the first airline in Asia to serve London, and in 1980 it became the first Asian airline to serve Los Angeles. The airline has grown over the years and now serves over 80 destinations in more than 30 countries.
Thai Airways has won numerous awards, including Best Economy Class and Best Airline in Asia, as well as being recognized for its exceptional in-flight service and safety standards. The airline has also invested in sustainable practices, including reducing its carbon footprint and supporting local communities.
Fleet Information
Aircraft Types
Thai Airways International has a modern wide-body fleet of aircraft that provides both comfort and the latest in technology to soothe, relax, and entertain passengers. The airline operates a fleet of all wide-body and narrow-body aircraft from Airbus and Boeing. As of June 2023, Thai Airways International operates the following aircraft: Airbus A330-300, Airbus A350-900, Boeing 777-200ER, Boeing 777-300ER, Boeing 787-8, and Boeing 787-9.
Fleet Size
Thai Airways International has a total fleet size of 50 aircraft. The airline has 12 Airbus A350-900 aircraft, 14 Boeing 777-300ER (77B) aircraft, and 3 Boeing 777-300ER (77Y) aircraft. The Airbus A350-900 has a total capacity of 321 seats and offers Royal First Class, Royal Silk Class, and Economy Class. The Boeing 777-300ER (77B) has a total capacity of 348 seats and offers Royal First Class, Royal Silk Class, and Economy Class. The Boeing 777-300ER (77Y) has a total capacity of 364 seats and offers Royal First Class, Royal Silk Class, and Economy Class.
Destinations Covered
Thai Airways International covers a diverse range of destinations across the globe. The airline operates flights to 10 destinations within Thailand and 63 international destinations worldwide, including popular destinations in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
Some of the airline’s most popular international destinations include Tokyo, Seoul, Hong Kong, London, Paris, and Frankfurt. Thai Airways also offers flights to destinations in Australia, New Zealand, and the United States.
In addition to its primary hub at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, Thai Airways also operates flights from other airports in Thailand, including Chiang Mai and Phuket. The airline also offers joint operations with Thai Smile Airways, providing additional domestic and regional connections.
Overall, Thai Airways International’s extensive network of destinations makes it a convenient choice for travelers looking to explore Thailand and beyond.
In-Flight Services
In-Flight Entertainment
Thai Airways offers a variety of in-flight entertainment options to make your journey enjoyable. Passengers can choose from a selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games. The entertainment system is available on personal screens located on the back of each seat. You can also enjoy a range of audio books, podcasts, and magazines.
Catering Services
Thai Airways provides a range of catering services to suit your dietary needs. You can pre-order special meals that conform to religious, health, or dietary requirements. The airline also offers a range of beverages, including soft drinks, beers, wines, and spirits. Passengers can enjoy a complimentary meal service on most flights, and additional snacks and refreshments are available upon request.
Thai Airways provides a comfortable and enjoyable flying experience with its in-flight services. Whether you want to watch a movie or enjoy a delicious meal, the airline has got you covered.
Thai Airways Loyalty Program
Thai Airways offers a loyalty program called Royal Orchid Plus, which rewards frequent flyers with miles that can be redeemed for various benefits. Members earn miles when flying with Thai Airways, Star Alliance partners, and other travel and financial partners.
There are four tiers of membership: Basic, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Each tier offers different benefits, such as priority check-in, lounge access, and extra baggage allowance. Members can also earn bonus miles when they reach certain milestones, such as flying a certain number of miles or taking a certain number of flights.
To earn miles, members must quote their Royal Orchid Plus membership number when making reservations and checking in, or when using partner services. The number of miles earned depends on the distance flown, the fare class, and the membership tier. Members can also earn miles by using co-branded credit cards or staying at partner hotels.
Overall, Royal Orchid Plus is a great way for frequent flyers to earn rewards and enjoy extra benefits when flying with Thai Airways and its partners.
Corporate Social Responsibility
Thai Airways International is committed to conducting its business in a socially responsible manner. The company recognizes that its operations can have an impact on the environment, society, and the economy. Therefore, Thai Airways has implemented several initiatives to fulfill its corporate social responsibility.
Environmental Sustainability
Thai Airways is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and has implemented several measures to achieve this goal. The company has invested in fuel-efficient aircraft, implemented a fuel conservation program, and reduced its ground energy consumption.
Community Development
Thai Airways has initiated several programs to support the communities in which it operates. The company has established a corporate social responsibility fund to support education, healthcare, and environmental projects. Additionally, Thai Airways has implemented a program to support local artisans and small businesses.
Ethical Business Practices
Thai Airways is committed to conducting its business in an ethical manner. The company has implemented a code of conduct that outlines its commitment to ethical business practices. The code of conduct covers areas such as anti-corruption, fair competition, and human rights.
Employee Development
Thai Airways recognizes the importance of its employees and has implemented several programs to support their development. The company provides training and development opportunities to its employees and has established a program to support employee health and wellness.
Customer Satisfaction
Thai Airways is committed to providing its customers with a high level of service. The company has implemented several initiatives to improve customer satisfaction, including a customer feedback program and a customer service training program for its employees.
Financial Performance
Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) has been reporting a steady increase in its total revenue over the past few years. According to its financial statements, THAI’s total revenue for Q1/2023 was 0 million baht, which is a 245.1% increase compared to the same period last year. The company’s EBITDA for Q1/2023 was 0 million baht, which is a 1,120.6% increase compared to Q1/2022.
THAI’s operational performance for Q2/2022 was also impressive, with total revenue of 21,526 million baht, which is a 282% increase compared to Q2/2021. The revenue from passenger and cargo also increased by 293% and 196%, respectively. However, the company reported a net loss of 3,243 million baht for Q1/2022, which is lower than the same period last year by 8,962 million baht.
Overall, THAI’s financial performance has been showing signs of improvement, but the company is still facing challenges due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. THAI has been implementing cost-cutting measures and restructuring plans to overcome these challenges and improve its financial position.
Controversies and Challenges
Thai Airways has faced numerous controversies and challenges in recent years, including financial struggles and safety concerns. In 2020, the airline was forced to file for bankruptcy due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on the aviation industry.
The airline has also faced criticism for its safety record, with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) raising concerns about the airline’s safety practices in 2015. As a result, China, Korea, and Japan placed restrictions on new Thai flights. The airline is still blocked from flying into the USA due to safety concerns.
Moreover, Thai Airways has been criticized for its inefficient management and high operating costs. The airline has struggled to compete with low-cost carriers and ambitious Gulf airlines, which have put pressure on its profitability.
To overcome these challenges, Thai Airways has undergone a restructuring process and is seeking to resume growth. However, the airline still faces significant challenges, including intense competition and a difficult economic environment.
Future Plans and Prospects
Thai Airways has outlined plans to purchase 30 new widebody jets by 2025 to strengthen its fleet and replace decommissioned planes. The airline has already begun talks with aircraft manufacturers, and this move is seen as a sign of confidence in the airline’s future prospects.
The airline is also planning to reduce its fleet size to 86 aircraft by 2025 and halve the number of different aircraft and engine types to lower costs. This is part of the airline’s recovery plan submitted to the Thai government as it emerges from bankruptcy.
Thai Airways expects to bounce back to profitability by 2023, though the carrier warns that it might miss a crucial deadline to resolve grounds for delisting. The airline’s Acting President, Mr. Chansin Treenuchagron, has stated that the bankruptcy plan is still going ahead under the Bankruptcy Court, and there are many creditors and complex issues involved.
Overall, Thai Airways’ future plans and prospects look promising as it moves forward with its recovery plan and seeks to strengthen its fleet.