Thai Airways to Reintroduce Premium Economy Cabin in 2025

Thai Airways has announced plans to reintroduce a premium economy cabin as part of its growth strategy, aimed at exiting its restructuring program in 2025. The airline’s updated offerings will also include an enhanced business class product and the introduction of new fuel-efficient aircraft to ensure sustained profitability.

The return of the premium economy service responds to a growing demand for affordable yet comfortable air travel. Previously, Thai Airways offered premium economy on select Boeing 777-300ERs and had plans for Airbus A340-600s and A380s, which have since been withdrawn from the fleet. The product was dropped during earlier restructuring efforts aimed at addressing financial losses, but the current market trend sees many international airlines either introducing or enhancing their premium economy offerings.

Emirates introduced its premium economy cabin in 2023, reporting significant success on affected routes, while Cathay Pacific has increased the size of its premium economy cabins by 50% on several Boeing 777s, reflecting rising demand for more comfort among economy travelers.

Thai Airways revealed its plans at a recent event under the slogan “Fly for New Pride.” CEO Chai Eiamsiri announced significant upgrades to the business class cabins across its fleet of 17 Boeing 777-300ERs, likely using seats currently found in the airline’s Boeing 787 long-haul fleet. The carrier also intends to revamp its First Class offering.

Looking ahead, Thai Airways is set to introduce an all-new business class seat on its upcoming fleet of 45 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, with the first delivery expected in 2027. This move aims to keep pace with other Asia-Pacific carriers that have updated their business class products since the pandemic.

Thai Airways filed for bankruptcy protection in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and a sharp decline in passenger traffic. As part of its restructuring, the airline is converting existing creditor debt into capital, offering additional shares to bolster its financial position, and preparing for a potential relisting on the Thai stock exchange.

During this restructuring period, the airline streamlined operations, reduced its workforce, retired older aircraft (including six A380s and 18 Boeing 747-400s), and merged its Thai Smile low-cost division back into the main operation. These efforts have led to a return to profitability and a more optimistic outlook under a new board of directors.

Thai Airways is also focusing on targeting transit passengers, enhancing connectivity at its hubs, forging new partnerships, and diversifying revenue sources to reduce reliance on its core airline operations.

“With these strategies, Thai Airways will operate more agilely, adapt to changes swiftly, and foster new business opportunities for sustainable growth in the future,” Chai concluded.

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