Is Thai AirAsia the same as Thai Airways?

Understanding the Differentiation: Thai AirAsia vs. Thai Airways

In Thailand’s aviation industry, the presence of multiple airlines can lead to confusion, particularly regarding the relationship between Thai AirAsia and Thai Airways. To clarify the matter, it’s essential to understand their distinct identities and operations.

Thai AirAsia: A Separate Entity

Thai AirAsia is a low-cost carrier that operates independently as an associate company of the AirAsia Group. It is a separate entity from Thai Airways and has its own management, fleet, and routes. Thai AirAsia focuses on providing affordable air travel to passengers, typically with a more basic level of service compared to full-service carriers.

Thai Airways: The National Carrier

On the other hand, Thai Airways is Thailand’s national carrier, offering a full range of services including premium cabins, in-flight entertainment, and baggage allowance. As a legacy airline, Thai Airways has a long history and an extensive network of destinations. It operates both domestic and international flights, and is renowned for its “Smile of Thailand” hospitality.

Royal Orchid Plus: Thai Airways’ Budget Carrier

To compete with low-cost carriers like Thai AirAsia, Thai Airways established its own budget airline called Royal Orchid (Euarng Luang). Royal Orchid Plus offers a similar no-frills experience as Thai AirAsia, but with a slightly higher level of service and a wider range of destinations.

Nok Air: A Separate Low-Cost Carrier

Another airline that often causes confusion is Nok Air. While Nok Air leases aircraft from Thai Airways, it operates as a separate entity. It is a low-cost carrier that focuses on domestic flights within Thailand, offering a similar level of service to Thai AirAsia and Royal Orchid Plus.

Conclusion

To summarize, Thai AirAsia, Thai Airways, Royal Orchid Plus, and Nok Air are all distinct airlines with their own unique identities and operations. Thai AirAsia is a low-cost carrier independent of Thai Airways, while Thai Airways is the national carrier with its own budget airline, Royal Orchid Plus. Nok Air, despite leasing planes from Thai Airways, is a separate low-cost carrier specializing in domestic flights. Understanding these differences can help travelers make informed decisions when choosing the most suitable airline for their needs.