# Thai Airways to phase out its First Class cabins

- Link: https://www.thailand-business-news.com/companies/244701-thai-airways-to-phase-out-its-first-class-cabins
- Published: 2025-09-11T09:11:00+07:00
- Author: Stephanie Chu

Thai Airways intends to phase out its First Class cabins within the next two to 
three years as part of a strategic transformation aimed at enhancing its premium
travel offerings and reclaiming market share.

Instead, the airline will prioritize upgrading its Business Class to a more luxurious
standard, in line with global aviation trends. This decision follows Thai Airways’
successful financial restructuring and exit from its reorganization plan.

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Key elements of the strategy include:

 * **Elimination of First Class:** First Class will be discontinued across all routes,
   with Business Class becoming the airline’s primary premium offering.
 * **Enhanced Business Class Experience:** Business Class will be revamped to provide
   comfort and amenities comparable to or surpassing those of the current First 
   Class.
 * **Introduction of Premium Seating Options:** New premium seats will be added 
   to the front rows of Business Class cabins, delivering an elevated experience
   at a lower cost than traditional First Class.
 * **Standardized Cabin Configuration:** Aircraft cabins will be standardized into
   three classes: Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy.

**Fleet Modernization:**

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 * Conversion of 20 Airbus A320 aircraft from all-economy to a two-class configuration(
   Royal Silk Class and Economy).
 * Delivery of 17 new Airbus A321neo aircraft between 2025 and 2026, featuring lie-
   flat seats for premium passengers.
 * Refurbishment of 14 Boeing 777-300ER aircraft over the next two years, including
   new Business Class suites and upgraded Premium Economy and Economy seating.
 * Cabin upgrades for 20 Airbus A350 aircraft starting in 2028.
 * Delivery of 45 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, with the first nine arriving in 2028; 
   none will feature First Class cabins.

**Fleet Expansion:** Thai Airways plans to grow its fleet from 78 aircraft to 150
by 2033.

**Market Share Goals:** The airline aims to secure 35% of market share at Suvarnabhumi
Airport by 2029, with a long-term target of returning to approximately 42%.

This strategic shift mirrors the global trend among major international airlines
to discontinue First Class services and highlights Thai Airways’ belief that in-
flight features—such as seating, entertainment, food, and crew service—are key competitive
advantages. By focusing on a premium Business Class experience, the airline seeks
to enhance profitability and strengthen its position in the evolving premium travel
market.