Short-Haul Luxury: Thai Airways launches Royal Silk Business Class

Thai Airways is raising the bar for short-haul travel by introducing its Royal Silk business class on its Airbus A320 jets. Launching in January 2025, travellers can indulge in a premium experience on regional routes across Thailand and within Asia, offering enhanced convenience and comfort with spacious cabin space and upgraded amenities.

Short-Haul Luxury

The airline’s A320 Royal Silk business class will feature wide reclinable seats, providing absolute relaxation even on short-haul flights. While the cabins won’t include traditional built-in video screens, passengers have access to Thai Vision Connect, the airline’s in-flight entertainment system streamed via WiFi directly to their personal devices.

This luxury upgrade is pivotal for Thai Airways as they have shifted from the previous European-style business model that uses economy seats with an empty middle seat for added space. Regional business class throughout Asia can vary, however Thai Airways have struck a balance between practicality and comfort. This redesign positions Thai Airways alongside regional competitors such as Malaysia Airlines and Cathay Pacific, who prioritise recliner seating on single-aisle jets. Meanwhile, rival Singapore Airlines still sets a high bar with fully-reclinable flatbeds on its Boeing 737 MAX fleet.

The Bigger Plan

Thai Airways’ project of launching business class on their A320 jets is part of a wider vision to embellish its premium service. The airline plans to reintroduce premium economy and flirt with upgrades to its Boeing 787 business class cabins. On longer international routes, Thai’s twin-aisle aircraft, comprising the Airbus A330, A350 and Boeing 787, continue to provide excellent international-grade business and world class service.

The introduction of Royal Silk business class on their A320 jets reflects Thai’s devotion to maintaining a competitive edge whilst still evolving with ever-changing passenger expectations. With competitor regional airlines such as Cathay Pacific, Thai Airways’ decision to invest in upgraded comfort even for short-haul regional routes highlights their ethos of seamless luxury no matter the length of the journey.

Book your Royal Silk business class seat and experience Thai Airways’ high-class travel offerings!