Flying first class is always a special experience, and Thai Airways has a reputation for offering a luxurious journey steeped in Thai hospitality. On my recent around-the-world trip, the highlight was undoubtedly flying Thai Airways First Class on their Boeing 777-300ER from Bangkok to London. This Thai Air First Class review will walk you through every aspect of the experience, from booking and the ground experience to onboard service, meals, and amenities.
So, if you’re considering Thai Airways First Class, this detailed guide will help you decide if it’s worth it.
Compare prices on Thai Airways flights with SkyscannerThai Airways First Class Routes
Before 2020, Thai Airways offered a wider selection of first class routes. However, following fleet adjustments and the retirement of older aircraft, Thai Airways First Class is currently available on just three routes:
- Bangkok to London Heathrow (777-300ER)
- Bangkok to Tokyo Narita (777-300ER)
- Bangkok to Osaka Kansai (777-300ER)
These routes are serviced by Thai Airways’ Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, which feature a dedicated first class cabin. While this is a limited offering compared to pre-2020 operations, these routes still provide a premium experience that highlights the airline’s renowned hospitality.
As international travel continues to recover, Thai Airways may expand its first-class routes. For now, these three routes remain the best opportunities to experience Thai Airways First Class.
Booking Thai Airways First Class
This flight was part of an Aeroplan around-the-world ticket that also included stops in Sydney, Singapore, and Taipei before continuing to Munich and back to Vancouver. The entire itinerary cost 234,000 Aeroplan points plus $797 in taxes and fees. (Check out my Aeroplan around-the-world booking guide for details on how I secured this incredible value.)
Thai Airways First Class is a popular redemption choice due to its exceptional service and relatively low points requirement compared to other first-class products. However, award availability can be limited, so booking well in advance is recommended. Thai Airways operates first class on select long-haul routes, including Bangkok to London, Tokyo, and Osaka.
Ground Experience on Thai Airways Bangkok to London
Check-In
The first-class experience began at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport with a dedicated check-in counter. Staff were courteous, offering water while my documents were processed. Afterward, I was escorted through the fast-track security and immigration lanes, which saved considerable time.
Thai Airways First Class Lounge
The highlight of the ground experience was the Thai Airways First Class Lounge. Located within the Royal Orchid Lounge complex, this roped-off section offers an exclusive atmosphere with ample seating, a private dining area, and attentive service. While I was tempted by the extensive menu, I saved most of my appetite for the onboard lobster. I did, however, enjoy a tart pineapple smoothie, iced coffee, and a flavorful Massaman curry. The dessert options, including fresh fruit and mousse, were also excellent.
The lounge also provides complimentary spa treatments for first-class passengers. Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to indulge, but it’s a unique perk worth arriving early for.
Boarding Thai Airways 1st Class
Boarding was slightly disorganized, with no staff escorting me to the gate as promised. While it wasn’t far from the lounge, I missed the priority boarding window. This small hiccup aside, the boarding process itself was smooth.
Thai Airways 777-300ER First Class Cabin and Seat
Cabin Layout and Design on the Boeing 777-300ER Thai Airways
Thai Airways’ first class on the 777-300ER features a small, intimate cabin with just eight seats arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration. The decor combines beige, gold accents, and wood finishes, creating an elegant yet slightly dated look. The cabin’s design contrasts with the more vibrant purples and dark woods seen in Thai Airways’ business class.
Thai Airways 777-300ER Seat Map
Thai Airways’ Boeing 777-300ER (77Y) features a total of 303 seats across three classes, offering a balance of luxury and comfort. The exclusive Royal First Class cabin boasts just 8 spacious and private seats, ensuring an intimate and premium travel experience.
Royal Silk Class provides 40 seats designed for business travelers, with added comfort and convenience. The Economy Class accommodates 255 passengers, offering a reliable and comfortable option for long-haul journeys.
Seat on Thai Airways 777-300ER First Class
The first-class seat is spacious and comfortable, with three windows for passengers in window seats—a feature I always appreciate. The seat is wide enough for side sleeping and includes a small privacy slider, though it lacks a fully enclosed door, which competitors like Singapore Airlines and Emirates offer.
What truly sets this seat apart is the attention to comfort. The seat has ample storage compartments for personal items, a generously sized tray table for dining or working, and adjustable lighting to suit different phases of the flight. While the seat is fantastic for lounging, it transforms seamlessly into a fully flat bed. The bed is accompanied by a mattress pad, duvet, and two plush pillows. It’s worth noting, however, that the cabin temperature started out quite warm, which impacted my initial sleep.
For comparison, this seat felt comparable to Oman Air First Class—another stellar product I’ve reviewed. While Oman Air includes more privacy with enclosed suites, Thai Airways’ wide, open seat still delivers excellent comfort.
Service and Amenities on Thai Airways First Class
Thai Hospitality
The cabin crew were exceptionally friendly, embodying the warm hospitality Thailand is known for. They quickly introduced themselves, offered champagne and warm towels, and ensured I was comfortable. Pajamas (provided in my size) and the Thai Airways First Class amenity kit were delivered promptly.
Lavatory
Thai Airways’ First Class lavatories are impressively spacious and impeccably clean, with a delightful fragrance that enhances the overall experience. While not overly luxurious or groundbreaking in design, they are well-stocked with thoughtful amenities. Travelers will find an array of toiletries, including lotion and revitalizing facial mist—small touches that are always appreciated on long-haul flights for staying refreshed and comfortable.
Thai Airways First Class Amenity Kit
The Thai Airways First Class amenity kit, presented in an elegant case, included luxury skincare products, a toothbrush, and an eye mask. While it covered the essentials, it lacked some premium touches like facial mist, which other airlines’ first-class kits often provide.
Dining Experience on Thai Airways Bangkok to London
Thai Airways First Class Menu Highlights
Meal service on Thai Airways First Class is a true highlight. It began with an indulgent appetizer of caviar—a touch of luxury I’ve only experienced on first-class flights, such as Oman Air. There’s something about starting a meal with caviar at 35,000 feet that sets the tone for a memorable dining experience.
The meal continued with smoked tuna and roasted nuts, which were fresh and flavorful. For the main course, I chose the lobster. While the lobster was slightly overcooked, it was still enjoyable, especially considering the complexity of serving seafood in the air. The meal was rounded out with a massive cheese plate—the largest I’ve ever seen onboard—followed by fresh fruit and a decadent dessert.
Breakfast was equally impressive, featuring mango pancakes, fresh pastries, and a beautifully arranged fruit platter. Despite being full from the previous meal, the quality and presentation of the breakfast made it impossible to pass up.
Drinks
The champagne and wine selection was top-notch, and my glass was never empty. Thai Airways’ cabin crew excelled in keeping drinks flowing and ensuring every aspect of the meal service was impeccable.
In-Flight Comfort on Thai Airways First Class
Bed and Sleep on Thai Airways 1st Class
The seat converts into a fully flat bed, complete with a mattress pad and duvet. While the bed was spacious and comfortable, the cabin’s temperature was initially too warm for restful sleep. After adjusting to the heat, I managed to get about six solid hours of rest.
In-Flight Entertainment
The Thai Airways 1st class entertainment system is one of the weaker aspects of the experience. The selection of movies and TV shows was limited, and the headphones provided were subpar. Thankfully, I had my own AirPods and a Bluetooth adapter.
Wi-Fi
Thai Airways provides complimentary Wi-Fi for first-class passengers, but my experience was inconsistent. After troubleshooting with the flight attendant, I was given a new code, which finally worked.
Arrival at London Heathrow on Thai Airways First Class Routes
Landing at Heathrow was smooth, and Thai Airways’ ground service continued with priority disembarkation and a buggy transfer to immigration. Despite the late departure, the flight arrived on time, a testament to Thai Airways’ reliability.
Is Thai Airways First Class Worth It?
While not as polished as competitors like Emirates or Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways First Class offers excellent value for award redemptions and a taste of Thai hospitality. The spacious seat, attentive service, and unique dining options make it a worthwhile experience, especially for those traveling from Bangkok to London. However, the outdated entertainment system and lack of complete seat privacy might leave some underwhelmed.
If you’re planning a trip to Bangkok, don’t miss my reviews of the Thai Airways First Class Lounge, Staybridge Suites Bangkok, and Bangkok Creative Market. For more flight reviews, check out my thoughts on United Polaris Business Class and EVA Air Business Class.
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