(Left to right, between the two Hostess de Thai Airways) Jeff Knittel (CIT), Fabrice Brégier (Airbus), Charamporn Jotikasthira (Thai Airways) et Éric Schulz (Rolls-Royce). Photos © Le Journal de l'Aviation - All rights reserved

Thai Airways International (THAI) has become the eighth operator of the A350 XWB, following the delivery today of the first of 12 aircraft set to join the carrier’s fleet. The aircraft delivered today is being operated on lease from US-based CIT. THAI has configured its A350-900 with a premium two class layout with a total of 321 seats, comprising 32 THAI’s Royal Silk Class, convertible to fully lie-flat beds, and 289 in the main cabin.

After an initial period flying on regional services between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, the aircraft will be deployed on long haul flights soon thereafter, starting with the Bangkok-Melbourne route.Altogether THAI has acquired 12 Airbus A350 XWBs. Four of these are being purchased directly from Airbus, with the other eight aircraft being acquired under lease agreements.

The A350 XWB features the latest aerodynamic design, carbon fiber fuselage and wings, plus new fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce engines. Together, these latest technologies translate into unrivalled levels of operational efficiency, with a 25 per cent reduction in fuel burn and emissions, and significantly lower maintenance costs. The spaciousness, quietness, beautiful interior and mood lighting in the cabin contribute to superior levels of comfort and well-being, setting new standards in terms of flight experience for all passengers.