Queen Suthida of Thailand has taken a personal leap into the skies, completing her first solo flight in a modern fighter jet. The event, staged at the airfield in Surat Thani province on 8 October, saw the monarch boarding a Saab Gripen—a Swedish‑designed aircraft now part of the Thai Air Force’s fleet.
Witnessing the flight from the ground was King Maha Vajiralongkorn, and his presence underscored the moment’s significance. According to the Royal Household, the Queen’s aviation credentials are substantial: she has logged about 1,188 hours in various aircraft since beginning to fly in 2010.
Her experience extends beyond solo missions. The Royal Household also noted that she has co‑piloted aircraft carrying the King on official trips abroad, demonstrating a long‑standing dedication to the aviation profession.
The Gripen, a multi‑role fighter known for its agility and advanced avionics, represents a modern touchstone for Thailand’s strategic aviation ambitions. By personally flying this jet, Queen Suthida is not just making history—she is actively engaging with the nation’s military capabilities.
This flight is expected to strengthen the public’s perception of the royal household’s active role in national defense and to inspire a new generation of Thai aviators.
