subject: Thai Airways: Lavish Carrier To Explore The Exotic East! [print this page] Thai Airways is the national carrier of Thailand and operates to major destinations across the world. Travelers interested in discovering the Far East, will find the airline to offer the best rates and travel routes in this region. The airlines passenger service is exceptional and it offers travelers a variety of options on routes, flight schedules and rates.
The airline finds its origins in 1960 when it was started as a joint venture between Scandinavian Airlines System and Thai Airways Company. In the beginning, Scandinavian Airlines System had 30 shares in the new company. Then, they offered the much needed technical and managerial expertise to get the airline on its feet and to provide Thailand with an international carrier. In course of time, Thailands staffs were able to take over the working of the airline and the number of expatriate staff running the airline reduced becoming a negligible one percent. In 1977, the government bought out all the shares owned by SAS and the airline became a national carrier operated completely by the Thailand government.
Thai Airways: Fleet and Services
The airline operates to 71 destinations across 35 cities and has a fleet of 91 aircrafts. It is headquartered in Chatuchak District, Bangkok and its major hub is the Suvarnabhumi Airport. Much of Thai Airways flights fly to Europe, East Asia, and Southwest Asia. It is a member of the Star Alliance through which it operates an extensive network across the world. It has the latest aircrafts in its fleet. Its fleet is inclusive of Boeing 747-400, Boeing 777-200, Boeing 777-200ER, Airbus 300-600 and much more.
This airline was world famous operating flights on the worlds longest nonstop routes between Thailand, Los Angeles and New York. With increase in fuel prices, they have stopped working on this route from 2012. It has assisted the UN in transporting delegates and has transported troops all across Asia and the world. Interestingly, the airline is the sponsor for Red Bull Racing and the Football Association of Thailand. It was the first Asia-Pacific Airline to service at Londons Heathrow Airport and it has the largest passenger operations in Europe.
Thai Airways Royal Orchid Plus Program
Thai Airways frequent flyer program is called the Royal Orchid Plus, which is used by more than two million people worldwide. Those who fly through Thai Airways or flights operating with the Thai share code or Flights operated by Star Alliance gain Earning Miles. Travelers who travel in a particular passenger class on Thai Airways or Star Alliance flights gain Qualifying Miles. Travelers can also get Partner Miles from non-airline partners such as hotels. The miles accumulated by travelers can be exchanged for rewards.
