Thai Airways International
Star AllianceThai Airways is Thailand’s full-service flag carrier, positioned as a traditional network airline offering full-service international and regional services mainly out of Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi (BKK). From a traveler’s perspective it operates a mix of regional and long-haul flights with standard full-service inclusions on many international fares (meals, seatback entertainment on long-haul, and checked baggage subject to fare rules).
The airline is a member of Star Alliance, which expands its global connectivity through alliance and codeshare partners; service quality and onboard products can vary by aircraft age and route.
Royal Orchid Plus - Thai Airways' Frequent Flyer Program
Royal Orchid Plus is the airline’s frequent flyer program and earns miles on Thai flights and on Star Alliance partner flights when credited to the program. Elite tiers include higher-status levels that correspond to Star Alliance Silver and Gold benefits, with Gold status granting lounge access and priority services on Star Alliance flights. Because of its Star Alliance links, the program is generally worth crediting long-haul and alliance flights for those collecting miles toward awards or elite status.
Where Thai Airways Flies
Thai operates from its main base at Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and focuses on a mix of regional Asian routes and long-haul services connecting Bangkok with Europe, Australia, the Middle East and other intercontinental destinations. The airline serves regional destinations across Southeast and East Asia as well as long-haul markets out of its Bangkok hub; its network reach is extended through Star Alliance partners and codeshare agreements. Service patterns and frequencies vary by season and market, so popular long-haul and Asian regional routes are often the easiest to find daily service on.
Hubs
- Suvarnabhumi Airport · BKK
Aircraft and Cabin Classes
Thai operates a mixed fleet with narrowbodies for regional and short-haul routes and widebodies for long-haul services, including types such as the Airbus A350 and A380 and long-range Boeing models like the 777 and 787. Cabins on long-haul aircraft generally include business class (marketed as Royal Silk) and economy; some long-haul aircraft offer premium economy and some aircraft previously carried a first-class cabin on select routes. Many long-haul business-class products provide lie-flat or heavily reclined seats and in-flight entertainment, but seat type and amenities vary by aircraft and route, so check the specific aircraft and seat maps when booking.
Aircraft types operated: Airbus A380, Airbus A300, Airbus A330, Airbus A340, Airbus A350, Boeing 737 Classic, Boeing 747-400, Boeing 777, Boeing 787 Dreamliner
Tips for Flying Thai Airways International
- If you want a particular seat or extra legroom, pay to select it in advance because some discounted fares restrict free seat selection.
- For international travel verify your checked-baggage allowance at booking because long-haul tickets typically include checked baggage while some regional/discounted fares may have limits or fees.
- Business- and first-class passengers and Star Alliance Gold members have lounge access at Suvarnabhumi (BKK); confirm which lounge applies to your ticket before arrival.
- Credit long-haul flights to Royal Orchid Plus or to a Star Alliance partner to earn elite credit and award miles, and search award space across Star Alliance members for better availability.