BHUTAN- In an extraordinary display of aviation skill, Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida personally piloted their Boeing 737-800 aircraft to Bhutan’s challenging Paro International Airport (PBH) on April 25, 2025.
This remarkable feat marked the beginning of their four-day state visit to the Himalayan kingdom. It is the first official overseas trip for King Vajiralongkorn since his ascension to the throne in 2019.
Photo- TheBhutaneseNewspaper & Wikimedia Commons; Compiled By Aviation A2ZThai King and Queen Land 737 at Paro Airport
The Thai monarchs’ decision to fly themselves into one of the world’s most demanding airports has captivated aviation enthusiasts worldwide.
Paro Airport (PBH), nestled between towering 18,000-foot Himalayan peaks and residential areas at an elevation of 7,382 feet, requires pilots to execute precise manoeuvres through narrow mountain corridors.
The Thai King’s impressive piloting skills come from his extensive military background. King Vajiralongkorn served as a career officer in the Royal Thai Army and is qualified to fly multiple aircraft types, including the Northrop F-5, F-16, and Boeing 737-400.
Queen Suthida served as co-pilot during the landing, demonstrating her aviation expertise. Suthida was formerly a flight attendant for JALways (JO)– a Japan Airlines’ subsidiary and later Thai Airways International (TG) until 2008. She joined the Royal Thai military and was later promoted to the King’s bodyguard in 2014. They both got married in 2019.
Photo- Wikipedia; Compiled by Aviation A2ZConquering Paro Airport’s Challenges
The royal landing gains additional significance considering Paro Airport’s infamous reputation among pilots.
As of 2024, only 50 pilots worldwide hold certification to land at this challenging airstrip.
The approach demands navigation between mountains in thin air that affects aircraft performance, while unpredictable weather patterns create additional challenges through updrafts and variable winds in the valley.
Thai Ambassador to Bhutan, Makawadee Sumitmor, revealed the extensive preparation undertaken by the King for this flight.
“His Majesty trained with a simulator for three days and conducted simulation landings for another two days at a military airport in Lop Buri.”
Makawadee Sumitmor, Thai Ambassdor to Bhutan
Photo- Wikipedia; Compiled by Aviation A2ZWhile the royal couple piloted the aircraft themselves, they received navigation assistance from a Drukair (KB) pilot familiar with the approach.
Upon their skilful touchdown at Paro, Their Majesties were received with full honours by Bhutan’s King and Queen.
The Bhutanese monarchs welcomed them with traditional ceremonies befitting a state visit of such significance.
Paro Airport; Photo- WikipediaStrengthening Diplomatic Bonds
The four-day state visit from April 25 to 28 represented the pinnacle of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Bhutan.
Both nations share Buddhist cultural values despite their geographic separation, and this visit served to deepen these historical connections.
Throughout their stay, the Thai King and Queen participated in numerous engagements and ceremonies designed to showcase the cultural ties between the two kingdoms. The visit highlighted not only diplomatic formalities but also genuine friendship between the royal families.
Photo- superkimbo | Flickr
A Meaningful Departure
On April 28, the Thai monarchs concluded their successful state visit, with King Vajiralongkorn again taking control of the aircraft for the departure from Paro. As their plane lifted off from the challenging runway, the Bhutanese King and Queen waved farewell from the tarmac, signifying the conclusion of this historic royal exchange.
Residents of Thimphu described the visit as more than a mere diplomatic engagement. The personal involvement of both royal couples, beginning with the remarkable landing piloted by the Thai monarchs themselves, created a profound manifestation of friendship that resonated deeply with citizens of both nations.
As their aircraft disappeared into the Himalayan skies, the visit left an indelible mark on Thai-Bhutanese relations that will influence diplomatic ties for years to come.
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