The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) is celebrating its 88th anniversary with an impressive international air show featuring elite aerial stunt teams from China, India, Singapore, Sweden, and the United States. The event, set to take place at Wing 6 base in Don Mueang, Bangkok, on March 7-8, will highlight the theme “Air Sovereignty Through Unbeatable Collaboration.”
A total of 29 aircraft, representing 28 different models, will participate in the event. Spectators can look forward to breathtaking aerial displays from renowned teams, including China’s “August First,” India’s “Surya Kiran,” and the US Air Force’s “F-35 Demo Team.” The RTAF will also showcase its own F-16 and Gripen teams, demonstrating their exceptional air combat capabilities.
The air show will provide visitors the rare opportunity to view aircraft up close from both the RTAF and international air forces. Aviation enthusiasts will also have the chance to experience a Gripen E/F flight simulator provided by Sweden’s SAAB. Additionally, an academic seminar will cover topics such as joint military operations, research collaboration, innovation, space technology, and the defense industry. An exhibition highlighting the history and development of the RTAF, as well as Thailand’s aviation and defense sectors, will also be featured.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai are scheduled to attend the event.
Rehearsals and Flight Advisory
Ahead of the official air show, the RTAF has conducted three rounds of rehearsals at Wing 6 today. These practice sessions took place at 8:50-9:25 AM, 11:15-11:45 AM, and 1:15-1:45 PM. The rehearsals included aircraft from India and China, such as the AU-23, Gripen Demo, Hawk Mk.132, and F-35A planes.
For the main event, performances are scheduled on March 7 from 9:00-10:00 AM and 10:45-11:15 AM, and on March 8 from 8:50-9:25 AM, 11:15-11:45 AM, and 1:15-1:45 PM.
Travelers flying from Don Mueang Airport during these dates are advised to arrive at least two to three hours before their scheduled departure due to possible air show-related disruptions. In case of flight changes, passengers should contact their airlines for assistance with rebooking.
Indian Air Force’s Suryakiran Aerobatic Team Joins the Celebration
The Suryakiran Acrobatic Team (SKAT) of the Indian Air Force has arrived at Wing 6 of the RTAF with 12 Hawk Mk.132 aircraft. The world-renowned nine-aircraft aerobatic team will perform public displays on March 7 and 8, painting the Bangkok sky with the colors of the Indian Tricolor. Their participation further strengthens the close diplomatic ties between India and Thailand.
The Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Air Force warmly welcomed representatives from the Indian Air Force and the Suryakiran pilots during their courtesy visit. The meeting included discussions with senior officers of the RTAF, reaffirming their readiness for the upcoming performances. Notably, the RTAF 88th Anniversary Air Show also marks the 78th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and India.
The participation of the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team in this significant event underscores the enduring friendship and collaboration between the Royal Thai Air Force and the Indian Air Force, further solidifying the strong ties between the two nations.
To attend the event, visitors must scan the provided QR code and present a screenshot of their registration at the entrance.
