Thai Airways International is advancing its fleet expansion as part of its business rehabilitation plan, confirming the purchase of 45 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. This strategic move aims to modernize the airline’s fleet, enhance capacity, and ensure flexibility amid ongoing global trade uncertainties, including the ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions.
The acquisition of these aircraft is a key element of Thai Airways’ efforts to position itself for long-term growth, with future purchases based on business needs and a focus on return on investment. The airline has indicated that its procurement plan is also a topic of bilateral discussions between Thailand and the United States, further promoting U.S. exports. However, Thai Airways executives have warned that the broader impact of the U.S.-China trade conflict remains uncertain, particularly as China has paused aircraft purchases from Boeing.
Last week, Thailand’s aviation sector received a significant boost when the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) upgraded the country’s safety rating to Category 1. This recognition, confirming Thailand’s compliance with international aviation safety standards, opens the door for Thai airlines to offer direct flights to the United States.
The first batch of Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners is expected to be delivered in 2027, with the order potentially expandable to as many as 95 aircraft. This expansion is part of a broader fleet modernization strategy, which also includes the addition of an Airbus A321neo, two more Boeing 787-9s, and an Airbus A330-300 by 2025.
While some industry analysts have expressed concerns about the financial risks associated with such a large acquisition, particularly given Thai Airways’ recent recovery from bankruptcy, others view the decision as a crucial step in the airline’s efforts to regain its status as a leading global carrier.
Thai Airways remains confident that any effects from global trade disputes will likely impact the entire aviation sector, not just the airline itself. The company continues to monitor passenger volumes across key international routes, including Europe, Japan, Australia, India, and South Asia, reporting no significant decline in travel demand. Despite the ongoing trade disruptions, Thai Airways’ updated strategy focuses on diversifying revenue sources and maintaining robust contingency plans to navigate potential challenges.
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