A Royal Arrival Like No Other
On Friday, 25 April 2025, Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida landed their Boeing 737-800 aircraft at Paro International Airport in Bhutan, piloting the plane themselves during their official state visit.
According to reports, the flight was personally captained by the King, with Queen Suthida acting as co-pilot.
This marks King Vajiralongkorn’s first official overseas visit since ascending to the throne in 2019.
Why Paro Airport Is No Ordinary Destination
Paro International Airport is widely known as one of the most challenging airports in the world. The airport’s approach requires aircraft to move through narrow valleys with limited clearance.
As of 2024, only 50 pilots worldwide are certified to land at Paro due to the high level of skill required to navigate its terrain, according to Aviation A2Z.
The weather in the area can be quite unpredictable, with sudden gusts of wind and shifting air currents that make landing even more challenging.
Training Behind the Scenes
The Thai King did not undertake the flight casually.
According to Aviation Voice, the King underwent extensive training on a flight simulator, followed by practising simulated landings at a military airport in Lop Buri, Thailand.
A Drukair pilot, familiar with the tricky approach to the airport, was also on board to offer extra guidance and support during the landing.
Aviation Background
King Vajiralongkorn’s qualifications as a pilot stem from his military career in the Royal Thai Army. He is certified to fly various aircraft, according to reports.
Queen Suthida, who began her career as a flight attendant with Japan’s subsidiary airlines (JALways) and Thai Airways International, later joined the Royal Thai military and rose to the position of the King’s bodyguard in 2014.
She was appointed Queen in 2019 and played a direct role in this flight as co-pilot.
A Royal Welcome in Bhutan
Upon arrival, the Thai monarchs were greeted with full ceremonial honours by Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema.
Their arrival signified the start of a four-day (25 April- 28 April) state visit to strengthen the diplomatic and cultural ties between the two nations, both of which share deep-rooted Buddhist values.
According to reports, the Thai royal couple took part in a series of cultural events, showing the long-standing bond between the two kingdoms.
Departure with Dignity
On Monday, 28 April 2025, the royal couple concluded their visit and once again took control of their plane for departure.
King Vajiralongkorn piloted the return flight out of Paro Airport, with Bhutan’s King and Queen waving them off from below.
The gesture of personally flying the aircraft left a strong impression on the Bhutanese public.
Residents viewed the visit not only as a diplomatic event but as a genuine expression of friendship and shared respect between nations.
Watch the videos here:
@thesmartlocalth In celebration of Coronation Day 2025, the TSL Thailand team is honoured to share remarkable footage showcasing the exceptional abilities of Their Majesties the King and Queen, who personally piloted the royal aircraft during their official visit to the Kingdom of Bhutan from 25 to 28 April 2025. His Majesty served as the primary pilot, with Her Majesty as co-pilot. . Paro International Airport is situated in a deep valley at an altitude of 2,235 metres above sea level, surrounded by towering peaks rising to 5,500 metres. It is widely regarded as one of the most challenging airports in the world for take-offs and landings. The approach demands precise navigation through narrow mountain passes, and the absence of radar assistance further complicates the landing process. . Due to these extreme conditions, only around 50 pilots worldwide are certified to land at Paro. Some reports suggest the number may be even lower, with estimates ranging from just 8 to 24 pilots globally. . #TSLTHWUT #WUT #News #ThaiRoyalFamily
♬ original sound – The Smart Local Thailand – The Smart Local Thailand
More from Wake Up Singapore:-
4-Year-Old Boy in Thailand Rescued After Video of Him Smoking Goes Viral
Thailand Celebrates LGBTQ Rights as 300 Same-Sex Couples Register Marriages in Bangkok
Uninvited Guest: Elephant Walks Into Thai Grocery Store, Eats Snacks
If you have a story or a tip-off, email admin@wakeup.sg or get in touch via Whatsapp at 8882 5913.
Since you have made it to the end of the article, follow Wake Up Singapore on Telegram!
Wake Up Singapore is a volunteer-run site that covers alternative views in Singapore. If you want to volunteer with us, sign up here!
If you can, please do consider buying a mug or two to support Wake Up Singapore’s work!
