In a record show of competence and dedication, His Majesty King Vajiralongkorn and Her Majesty Queen Suthida of Thailand flew their own Boeing 737-800 personally to Bhutan for an official state visit. Aviation buffs were left agog as the royal couple landed and took off from Paro International Airport, one of the world’s most difficult airstrips, with ease.
The experience was fascinating as the King and Queen piloted the plane as well as landed it at the notoriously challenging Paro airport. Their Majesties were welcomed by the King and Queen of Bhutan, a momentous occasion in the annals of state visits. The Queen of Thailand acted as co-pilot for the flight, adding to the uniqueness of the event.
Thailand’s King Vajiralongkorn: A Skilled Military Pilot
King Vajiralongkorn, who came to the throne in 2019, has a prestigious military background. A career army officer, he is a qualified military pilot who can fly a range of aircraft, including the Northrop F-5, F-16, and Boeing 737-400. This was his first official state visit overseas as monarch, and he made it even more special by flying the royal plane himself.
News from Bhutanese media reported that His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua, with Her Majesty Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana, arrived in Bhutan on April 25, 2025. The visit was by invitation of Bhutan’s monarch, His Majesty the King of Bhutan.
Full Honours at Paro International Airport
The royal couple was given a warm reception upon their arrival in Paro, and they were greeted with full honours by Bhutan’s ruling monarch, His Majesty The King, and Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen. The Thai King and Queen attended several engagements and programmes during their four-day visit to Bhutan.
As they left, the King once again flew the plane, with Their Majesties waving off Bhutan to conclude their triumphant state visit. The hands-on approach of the couple during the journey has brought a new twist to state visits, which has reflected their strong attachment to their royal role.
