THIMPHU/PARO — In a remarkable blend of royal tradition and personal passion, Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida made global headlines as they personally piloted their Boeing 737-800 to Bhutan’s Paro International Airport, one of the world’s most challenging airstrips, for their first official state visit abroad as monarch and consort.
Their Majesties touched down smoothly on April 25, captivating aviation enthusiasts and royal watchers alike. King Vajiralongkorn, an experienced military and civilian pilot qualified on several aircraft including the F-16 and Boeing 737 series, took the captain’s seat, with Queen Suthida serving as his co-pilot — a rare and historic moment in modern state diplomacy.
The royal couple’s four-day visit to Bhutan marked a significant milestone in the deepening friendship between the two Himalayan and Southeast Asian kingdoms. Upon landing, Their Majesties were received with full state honours by Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema at the scenic Paro airport.
Strengthening Cultural and Educational Ties
During the visit, the Thai and Bhutanese monarchs presided over a series of cultural and educational exchanges aimed at further cementing bilateral relations. According to reports in Bhutanese media and corroborated by India’s The Hindu, the two sides signed new agreements to expand scholarship opportunities for Bhutanese students in Thai universities and pledged deeper cooperation in heritage conservation.
A joint statement emphasized mutual interests in promoting Buddhist cultural ties and enhancing people-to-people exchanges. The royal couples visited several sacred monasteries, including Bhutan’s famed Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest), and participated in a ceremonial tree-planting event symbolizing the enduring growth of Bhutan-Thailand friendship.
His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn flew the aircraft with Her Majesty Queen Suthida as the co-pilot.
Economic and Tourism Initiatives
Thai and Bhutanese officials also held talks on expanding tourism cooperation, with plans announced to streamline visa processes and promote dual-destination packages appealing to spiritual and eco-tourism seekers. The agreements come as both nations work to revitalize their tourism industries in the post-pandemic era.
Sources in US and Indian media also noted that the two countries explored avenues for increasing trade in herbal products, handicrafts, and organic agriculture — sectors aligned with Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness development philosophy and Thailand’s bio-circular-green (BCG) economy model.
Royal Farewell and Aviation Feat Repeated
At the conclusion of their stay on April 29, the Thai royal couple once again personally piloted their aircraft back home, bidding farewell to Their Majesties of Bhutan at Paro Airport. Images of the King and Queen waving goodbye before taking off have since gone viral, further solidifying the visit’s symbolic and diplomatic impact.
This unprecedented royal flight and landmark visit have not only captured the world’s imagination but have also set a new precedent in how modern monarchies can blend personal passions with statecraft. As both nations look to build on the outcomes of this historic meeting, their shared cultural heritage and forward-looking partnerships promise continued collaboration. (zai)