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Thai Airways to phase out first class as part of cabin overhaul
The Straits Times
|September 23, 2025
Thai Airways International has announced it will phase out first-class cabins across all routes, marking a significant strategic shift in line with global aviation trends.
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Under its restructuring plan, Thai Airways will streamline seating into three main classes: business, premium economy and economy.
(REUTERS)
Under its twoor three-year restructuring plan, the airline will streamline seating into three main classes: business, premium economy and economy.
To cater for passengers still seeking an elevated experience, Thai Airways is also considering introducing a new “premium business” section in the front rows of selected aircraft.
The disappearance of first-class cabins is not unique to Thai Airways.
Leading global carriers such as American Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Oman Air, Air New Zealand and Malaysia Airlines have already eliminated their most exclusive seats, making business class the top tier on their fleets.
Even Middle Eastern giants like Emirates and Qatar Airways are now introducing new aircraft designed without first-class cabins, signalling a wider industry shift.
This story is from the September 23, 2025 edition of The Straits Times.
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