Thai Airways Introduces 787-9 Aircraft With New Business Class Product

Thai Airways International has just welcomed a brand new 787-9 to its fleet. The first of its type for the carrier, the new, elongated model joins Thai’s six 787-8’s that are already flying for the carrier.

The aircraft isn’t just a stretch version of the current cabin products however, as the carrier has introduced a brand new business class seat, an upgrade on the B/E Aerospace Diamond seats that sit 2 x 2 x 2 on the 787-8’s. Royally dubbed ‘Phatthana Nikhom’ the 787-9 features the Zodiac Cirrus seat in a more spacious, all-aisle 1 x 2 x 1 configuration.

Mrs. Usanee Sangsingkeo, Thai’s Acting President, said “We are delighted to bring the new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner into our fleet. The 787-9 demonstrates our commitment to operating the most technologically advanced aircraft for passenger comfort. This type of aircraft meets customers’ expectations.”

The aircraft is seen as a route enabler, with Dr. Dinesh Keskar, Senior Vice President of Asia Pacific and India Sales for Boeing hinting at potential growth in new markets. “Boeing is honoured to deliver the first 787-9 Dreamliner to Thai Airways International. The Dreamliner will allow Thai to fly longer distances and to new destinations directly from Thailand, such as nonstop to North America.”

The interior follows the same contemporary Thai design concept which features in all of the airlines’ next-generation aircraft. The two classes are split in 30 Royal Silk Class seats, and 268 Economy Class seats. The aircraft also features the latest version of the Panasonic eX3 inflight enterinament, with Business Class seats featuring 16″ screens and economy featuring 11″. For those wanting to connect to the internet, the aircraft also features Panasonic’s Ku band Wi-Fi.

The aircraft will initially operate on Bangkok to Chiang Mai and Phuket before operating to Singapore and then finally as of 16th November, to both Auckland and Taipei.

Photos by Cherdpan Werakul