File photo for reference only

 

Thai Airways has taken a major step to modernize its fleet by leasing eight new Airbus A321neo aircraft from Dublin-based SMBC Aviation Capital. Announced on February 5, these state-of-the-art jets will be delivered between 2026 and 2027, marking a significant push in the airline's long-term growth plan.

 

This move follows Thai Airways' headline-grabbing order of 45 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners at the Singapore Airshow last February. Additionally, the airline has secured a mix of Boeing and Airbus planes, including 10 more A321neos, through a lease agreement with AerCap.

 

 

As the company aims to replace its ageing planes and expired leases, this fleet revamp aligns with its sustainability and efficiency targets. Conor Stafford, Head of Airline Marketing at SMBC Aviation Capital, highlighted that the new aircraft will enhance Thai Airways' operational efficiency and customer comfort while promoting sustainable aviation.

 

Thai Airways, which filed for bankruptcy protection in 2020, is in the midst of a major restructuring effort to regain financial health. With its current fleet of 79 aircraft, including Airbus A350-900 and Boeing 777-300ER models, the airline is gearing up for a stronger presence in global aviation.

 

-- 2025-02-07

 

 

My admiration grows. If the OP image is to be believed Thai Airways, presumably in the interest of safety, have insisted their new planes have extra engines. 😋

3 minutes ago, PETERTHEEATER said:

My admiration grows. If the OP image is to be believed Thai Airways, presumably in the interest of safety, have insisted their new planes have extra engines. 😋

 

Wel  spotted, its actually an A380.... Landing at Hong Kong !

 

Yes, I understand the image is 'for reference only, but since the object was to inform that Thai Airways had leased Airbus A321neo one would expect an image of that type and not a different type.

24 minutes ago, PETERTHEEATER said:

Yes, I understand the image is 'for reference only, but since the object was to inform that Thai Airways had leased Airbus A321neo one would expect an image of that type and not a different type.

Does it mean longer flights will be done by single aisle aircraft.

Recently an Airbus 321neo flew non-stop from Lima to Toronto (6194 km). All the far-east, south Asian and middle-east countries could be served from Bangkok by this Airbus 321neo. 
Not a joyful perspective because this is a trend across the Atlantic…

Boeing? Good luck with that.

I flew in one, BKK to MNL. I was impressed. Two aisle, plenty of leg room, good high ceiling so you don't feel cramped and claustrophobic. Cebu Pacific. A very nice flight.

1 hour ago, Ralf001 said:

 

Wel  spotted, its actually an A380.... Landing at Hong Kong !

 

 

It certainly doesn't refer to an A321neo that's for sure, which was the thrust of the story. Well spotted about HK.

3 hours ago, bradiston said:

I flew in one, BKK to MNL. I was impressed. Two aisle, plenty of leg room, good high ceiling so you don't feel cramped and claustrophobic. Cebu Pacific. A very nice flight.

They must have added an extra aisle just for you.

3 hours ago, Mises said:

They must have added an extra aisle just for you.

Er, right. I see what you're saying. I'm sure I read the emergency insert instructions with A321neo emblazoned on it. Must have been an A330 or A350. It was very quiet to boot. Brand new. Nice upholstery too, sky blue.

At least the Thai's are smart enough not to buy those flying coffins called Boeings. Well done Thai Airways.

9 hours ago, PETERTHEEATER said:

Yes, I understand the image is 'for reference only, but since the object was to inform that Thai Airways had leased Airbus A321neo one would expect an image of that type and not a different type.

Something like this perhaps?

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Airbus_A321neo

 

 

oh no 😒....range 6400km, 3.500 miles. Will carry exclusively hundredthousands of

indians from india to pataya. I wish it was the B787 for FRA / MUC / CDG / LHR -> BKK

The A 320 Neo is the most in demand aircraft in the world. My guess is 2028 at the earliest for delivery.

The range has the potential to revolutionise medium distance flights (six hours) by eliminating hubs

18 hours ago, PETERTHEEATER said:

My admiration grows. If the OP image is to be believed Thai Airways, presumably in the interest of safety, have insisted their new planes have extra engines. 😋

And an extra deck.... 

17 hours ago, Purdey said:

Boeing? Good luck with that.

A Boeing A321 Neo??

9 hours ago, bradiston said:

Er, right. I see what you're saying. I'm sure I read the emergency insert instructions with A321neo emblazoned on it. Must have been an A330 or A350. It was very quiet to boot. Brand new. Nice upholstery too, sky blue.

If it was Cebu and had two aisles it was an A330.

1 hour ago, josephbloggs said:

If it was Cebu and had two aisles it was an A330.

Thanks. Enjoyed the ride for sure!

20 hours ago, PETERTHEEATER said:

Yes, I understand the image is 'for reference only, but since the object was to inform that Thai Airways had leased Airbus A321neo one would expect an image of that type and not a different type.

And one could even imagine that Thai modernise their fleet with an obsolete aircraft. Obsolete at birth mind you.

Finally, they’re introducing premium economy on their new A321s and some existing A320s. However, this also means fewer seats overall. Switching to single-aisle A321s and A320s will massively cut capacity, letting them keep fares high!

All the hi-sos will be able to get more free first class travel

1 minute ago, henryford1958 said:

All the hi-sos will be able to get more free first class travel

 

Pretty good aye, Some days I wish I too was a HiSo.