Thai Queen Suthida Embarks on First Solo Fighter Jet Mission

Fri Oct 09 2026 21:51:34 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Queen Suthida logs 1,188 hours, now flies a Gripen solo—an unprecedented moment in Thailand's monarchy.

Thai Queen Suthida boarded a Swedish Gripen on 8 October at a Surat Thani airfield for her first solo mission, watched by King Maha Vajiralongkorn. The veteran pilot, who has logged more than 1,188 hours since 2010, has co‑piloted official flights with the King in the past. This solo sortie, authorised by the Royal Household, highlights a historic moment for Thailand’s monarchy and showcases the growing role of women in military aviation. The Royal Household confirmed the event in a statement, and the video footage was released by BBC News.

Thai Queen Suthida Embarks on First Solo Fighter Jet Mission

On 8 October, Queen Suthida boarded a Swedish‑made JAS‑39 Gripen at an airfield in Surat Thani province. The flight was witnessed by King Maha Vajiralongkorn, underscoring royal support for the pilot’s career.

A veteran aviator with over 1,188 hours logged across various aircraft since 2010, the Queen has also co‑piloted air missions with the King during overseas visits.

The solo sortie, authorised by the Royal Household, marks a rare ceremonial event and showcases the evolving role of women in Thai military aviation.

The Royal Household confirmed the event in a statement; read the full coverage on BBC News.

This milestone not only highlights Queen Suthida’s personal achievements but also signals a broader shift toward greater inclusion of women in Thailand’s defence sector.