Thai Airways International was established in 1960 as Thailand's national flag carrier airline. Based in Bangkok, the airline conducts its main operations through Suvarnabhumi Airport. Thai Airways became one of the founding members of the Star Alliance in 1997, expanding its global connections through this alliance. Initially established as a joint venture with Scandinavian Airlines, the company was fully acquired by the Thai government in 1977 and merged its domestic and international operations in 1988 to form its modern structure.
As a full-service airline, Thai Airways offers premium services to its passengers and is not among low-cost carriers. Its fleet consists of approximately 80-90 aircraft, with models like Airbus A320, A330, A350, and Boeing 777, 787 standing out. The airline operates flights to about 80 destinations, including non-stop flights from Bangkok to New York and Los Angeles, covering Asia, Europe, and North America.
Thai Airways serves 20-25 million passengers annually and has the largest fleet in Thailand. The company continues to be a significant player on the international stage by focusing on cargo transportation and tourism-oriented growth. Additionally, it operates daily direct flights to Istanbul through codeshare agreements with Turkish Airlines.
As Thailand's national airline, Thai Airways offers a wide network of destinations. The airline operates flights to approximately 80 destinations spanning Asia, Europe, and North America. From its main hub at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport, it offers a wide connection network, conducting direct flights to popular cities in Asia like Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Singapore, and major metropolises in Europe like London, Frankfurt, and Paris. Additionally, there are non-stop flights from Bangkok to New York and Los Angeles.
As a member of Star Alliance, Thai Airways has codeshare agreements with airlines like Lufthansa, Air Canada, SAS, and United, providing passengers with more destination options and transfer convenience. Through these collaborations, passengers can reach all corners of the world more comfortably. During certain periods of the year, especially in the summer when tourist demand increases, some seasonal routes may also be available. Daily direct flights to Istanbul are also an important connection added to the extensive destination network. This allows Thai Airways to offer comprehensive service to international passengers.
Thai Airways - Baggage Policy
Carry-On / Cabin Baggage: When traveling with Thai Airways, your carry-on baggage should typically weigh 7 kg and not exceed dimensions of 56x45x25 cm. Additionally, a laptop bag or small backpack considered a personal item can be carried to fit under the seat, with dimensions approximately 40x30x10 cm. This personal item also has a separate 7 kg limit.Checked Baggage: Checked baggage allowances on Thai Airways vary according to ticket class. For Economy class passengers, the baggage allowance is between 20-30 kg, based on weight. Premium Economy passengers have a 35 kg allowance, Business class passengers 40 kg, and Royal First passengers 50 kg. Infant passengers are offered a 10 kg baggage allowance and a collapsible stroller free of charge. Frequent flyers can earn an extra 10-20 kg baggage allowance. Additional baggage is more economical when purchased online in advance, as opposed to higher prices at the airport.Special Baggage: Special items include sports equipment, musical instruments, and baby strollers. Sports equipment can be transported for an additional fee between 20-32 kg. Musical instruments, if carried in the cabin, should not exceed a total size of 115 cm or 32 kg if checked as baggage. Baby strollers and pushchairs can be transported free of charge.
Thai Airways - Check-in & Seat Selection
Check-in Options: When traveling with Thai Airways, you can easily complete your check-in via the mobile app (THAI app) or the website. Online check-in opens 48 hours before the flight and closes 90 minutes prior. You can download and use your mobile boarding pass and receive real-time notifications. At the airport, self check-in can be done via kiosks for baggage-free passengers up to 2 hours before. Counter check-in closes 60 minutes before departure for international flights. You can quickly manage your transactions through the app with biometric entry.Seat Selection: Seat selection varies according to the different ticket classes offered by Thai Airways. In Economy class, standard seat selection is free with basic fares. However, an additional fee is charged for premium seats such as emergency exit rows offering extra legroom or front rows. Fees range from 20-100 USD depending on the distance. In Business class, all seats can be selected for free and with priority. In Economy Lite class, seat selection is limited and free, but in Flex class, it is fully free with the option to change. You can easily manage your seat selections and reservations through the mobile app.
Thai Airways - Meal Service
During your travels with Thai Airways, you can make your flight more enjoyable thanks to their meal service. In Economy class, hot sandwiches, snacks, and beverages are offered free of charge on short-haul flights. On long-haul flights, hot meals with Thai cuisine influences, salads, desserts, and wine or non-alcoholic beverages are served. In Business class, chef-signed multi-course gourmet menus enriched with options like seafood and steak are offered, accompanied by champagne and premium wines. If you have special dietary needs, you can order various special meal options such as vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher, 24 hours before your flight via the mobile app. It should be noted that some foods may be chargeable on short-haul flights, but this service is free on long-haul flights. While there is no café on board, a self-service bar is available in Business class.
Thai Airways - Loyalty Program
Thai Airways' loyalty program, Royal Orchid Plus (ROP), offers passengers the opportunity to earn and redeem miles. Mile accumulation is calculated based on the flight distance and a coefficient determined by the ticket class; you can earn miles at a rate of 100% for Economy Class and 125% for Business Class. Additionally, you can accumulate miles with Star Alliance partners (such as Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, United) and hotel or car rental services. You earn 1 mile for every 1,000 THB spent. With the miles you accumulate, you can obtain free award tickets, upgrade seats, or shop with the cash+mile option. There are three membership levels: Silver (lounge access with 30,000 miles), Gold (extra baggage allowance and priority check-in with 50,000 miles), and Platinum (two free baggage allowances and Business lounge access with 80,000 miles). ROP partners with over 30 Star Alliance airlines and offers advantages with Thai-based banks like Krungsri, SCB, and global credit card partners like Amex. You can track your ROP membership status via the mobile app.
Thai Airways - Travel Classes
Economy Saver: One of Thai Airways' most basic packages, Economy Saver offers the essential services you need for your trip. With this package, you have a 20 kg baggage allowance. Seat selection is possible for a fee of approximately 500-2000 THB. Meal service is provided during the flight. Changes and cancellations are conducted under strict rules and are usually chargeable; for free changes, you must make your reservation at least 7 days in advance.Economy Super Saver: The Economy Super Saver package offers a bit more flexibility with a 30 kg baggage allowance. Seat selection can be made free of charge during check-in. Meal service is again included. Changes are flexible but can still be made for a fee, and partial refunds are available in case of cancellation.Economy Flex/Extra Flex: These packages come with advantages like more baggage allowance (30-40 kg) and free seat selection. Seat selection, including front seats, is free. Full meal service is provided. It offers high flexibility; changes and cancellations are free and can be made up to 24 hours.Royal Silk Class (Business Flex): Thai Airways' premium class, Royal Silk Class, offers a 40 kg baggage allowance and premium seat selection. This class features seats equipped with lie-flat beds and gourmet meals. Changes and cancellations are free, and additional benefits like lounge access are offered.
Thai Airways - Cancellation & Changes
Cancellation Conditions: Thai Airways offers different cancellation policies depending on the ticket type. Full-price tickets generally allow free cancellation, while discounted tickets may incur a cancellation fee. Additionally, for international flights, a free cancellation right may be offered within the first 24 hours of booking. During this period, you can cancel and receive a refund without penalty.Change Rules: Thai Airways may allow date or route changes depending on the ticket type. Date changes can usually be made for an additional fee, while route changes may also incur extra charges. There may be restrictions on name changes depending on the ticket type. Flexible ticket options can provide more advantages for changes.Refund Process: Refunds are generally made according to the original payment method of the ticket, and the process may take several weeks. In the case of no-show, the ticket may be canceled and non-refundable, and a penalty may apply. Therefore, it is important to carry out cancellation or change processes in a timely manner.
Thai Airways - Seat Comfort & Entertainment
Seat Comfort and Legroom: Thai Airways offers different comfort options on aircraft models like Airbus A350-900 and A320. In the Airbus A350-900, Business class seats can fully recline into a bed with 104-117 cm legroom and 53-56 cm width, while Economy class seats offer 79-81 cm legroom and 46 cm width. Economy class seats are made of fabric material and designed with an 8-13 cm recline. In Airbus A320s, similar differences exist between Business and Economy class, but specific measurements may vary. Business class provides more legroom and width, ensuring comfort on long journeys.In-Flight Entertainment: Thai Airways offers a rich in-flight entertainment experience to its passengers. On long-haul flights, each seat has a personal screen, providing access to a wide range of movies, series, music, and games. Screen sizes generally range from 11-13 inches. On short-haul flights, the entertainment system may be more limited. USB ports and power outlets are generally available at seats, allowing you to charge your devices. Wi-Fi access may be available on long-haul flights, but this service is usually chargeable, and speed options may vary. Thai Airways aims to provide passengers with a comfortable and entertaining flight experience.
Thai Airways - Special Services
Unaccompanied Minor Service: Thai Airways offers a safe and comfortable flight experience for unaccompanied children aged 5 to 11. To benefit from this service, you need to inform during the reservation that your child will be traveling unaccompanied. Children are met by specially trained staff at the airport and safely escorted to the aircraft.Pregnant Passenger Policy: Thai Airways allows pregnant passengers to fly up to certain weeks to ensure a healthy flight experience. Generally, a medical report is required from the 28th week onwards. Flights are not permitted for pregnancies beyond the 36th week.Assistance for Disabled Passengers: Thai Airways recommends providing information during flight reservation for wheelchair support and other assistance. Various services are offered to assist disabled passengers at the airport and on the aircraft, and specially trained staff are always ready.Other Services: For special requests such as a baby bassinet or cot, it is recommended to make a reservation in advance. Thai Airways also offers VIP/CIP services, priority boarding, and meet-and-greet services. Special discounts and conveniences are provided for group reservations. These services are designed to make your journey more comfortable and enjoyable.
Thai Airways - Pet Transport Policy
Cabin Pet Transport: When traveling with Thai Airways, only small dogs and cats can be transported in the cabin. The total weight with your pet and carrier should not exceed 8 kg. The carrier dimensions should be 45x35x25 cm and should be soft and ventilated. Pre-booking is required to carry pets in the cabin.Cargo/Baggage Compartment Transport: Larger pets can be transported in the cargo compartment in an IATA-standard crate. Each pet's maximum weight can be 32 kg. Temperature-controlled flights are preferred for cargo transport, and all types of pets are accepted.Required Documents and Rules: When traveling with your pet, a veterinary health certificate (obtained within the last 10 days), rabies vaccination (administered at least 21 days prior), and a microchip are mandatory. Additional tests may be required for entry into the EU or USA. There are restrictions for brachycephalic (flat-nosed) breeds; some cannot be transported in the cabin or cargo compartment. Service animals can be transported in the cabin for free with the necessary documents and training certificate.
Thai Airways - Travel Tips
When planning your trip with Thai Airways, you can benefit from favorable prices and easily choose your seat by purchasing your tickets as early as possible. Setting flexible travel dates and choosing to fly outside of peak seasons can offer more advantageous prices. For seat selection, you can opt for emergency exit rows for more legroom or front rows for quicker disembarkation. Thai Airways' lounge access at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport provides comfort during long waiting times and allows you to rest. When planning your connecting flights, you can ensure a smooth transition by considering connection times. Thai Airways' mobile app speeds up check-in processes and allows you to easily track your flight information.
The information on this page about Thai Airways is for general informational purposes only. Airlines may change their baggage rules, travel classes, cancellation/change policies and other services without prior notice. For the most current and accurate information, please visit the official Thai Airways website. Tripuck cannot be held responsible for any changes to this information.
Carry-On / Cabin Baggage: When traveling with Thai Airways, your carry-on baggage should typically weigh 7 kg and not exceed dimensions of 56x45x25 cm. Additionally, a laptop bag or small backpack considered a personal item can be carried to fit under the seat, with dimensions approximately 40x30x10 cm.
Check-in Options: When traveling with Thai Airways, you can easily complete your check-in via the mobile app (THAI app) or the website. Online check-in opens 48 hours before the flight and closes 90 minutes prior.
Thai Airways operates flights to 28 cities in 19 countries. Turkey, Thailand, India are among its most popular destinations.
Thai Airways ticket prices vary by route and date. The current lowest fare starts from £337. Use the search box above for the latest prices.
During your travels with Thai Airways, you can make your flight more enjoyable thanks to their meal service. In Economy class, hot sandwiches, snacks, and beverages are offered free of charge on short-haul flights.
Thai Airways' loyalty program, Royal Orchid Plus (ROP), offers passengers the opportunity to earn and redeem miles. Mile accumulation is calculated based on the flight distance and a coefficient determined by the ticket class; you can earn miles at a rate of 100% for Economy Class and 125% for Business Class.
Cancellation Conditions: Thai Airways offers different cancellation policies depending on the ticket type. Full-price tickets generally allow free cancellation, while discounted tickets may incur a cancellation fee.
Cabin Pet Transport: When traveling with Thai Airways, only small dogs and cats can be transported in the cabin. The total weight with your pet and carrier should not exceed 8 kg.