Thai Airways Expands Fleet Rapidly with Two Deals in Two Days
By:
Pilotcenter.net
Thai Airways (THAI) has been quick to expand its fleet with the recent acquisition of 14 Airbus A321neo aircraft through separate agreements with two leasing companies. Pilotcenter.net News reported on April 23, 2025, that BOC Aviation, based in Singapore, finalized a deal to deliver five Airbus A321neos from its existing orderbook to Thai Airways. Just a day before, on April 22, 2025, China Aircraft Leasing Group (CALC) also made an announcement confirming their collaboration with Thai Airways for the first time, as they agreed to provide nine Airbus A321neo aircraft in phases from 2026 to 2028.
CEO Steven Townend of BOC Aviation expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, “We are pleased to be working once more with long-time customer, Thai Airways. The delivery of these technologically advanced aircraft is an important transaction in the development of our portfolio and will support Thai Airways as it expands its fleet and regional network.” Similarly, Winnie Liu, President and CCO of CALC, commended Thai Airways as “one of Southeast Asia’s most established flag carriers” and emphasized the significance of the agreement, saying, “This agreement not only strengthens our presence in Southeast Asia but also reinforces CALC’s role as a trusted provider of flexible, long-term fleet solutions tailored to each airline’s unique needs.”
Thai Airways has been utilizing lease agreements to enhance its fleet over the past two years. In one instance on February 5, 2025, Thai Airways announced a lease agreement with Dublin-based SMBC Aviation Capital for eight brand-new Airbus A321neo aircraft, scheduled for delivery in 2026 and 2027. Additionally, on February 26, 2024, the airline secured a deal with Air Lease Corporation for three 787-9 Dreamliners, and just days before on February 21, 2024, it was revealed that Thai Airways would be leasing a combination of Boeing and Airbus aircraft from AerCap. These agreements were made public during Singapore Airshow 2024, where Thai Airways also disclosed an order with Boeing for 45 787-9 aircraft.
According to Pilotcenter.net News, Thai Airways currently operates a fleet of 72 aircraft and has 80 jets pending delivery, which includes 32 A321neos. The airline's consistent efforts to expand its fleet demonstrate its commitment to growth and enhancing its regional network.
