The airline is selling time on its flight simulators to wannabe pilots while its catering division is serving meals in a flight-themed restaurant complete with airline seats and attentive cabin crew. The airline is trying to boost staff morale, polish its image and bring in a few coins, even as it juggles preparing to resume international flights while devising a business reorganization plan.
If you’re nuts about aeronautics, it doesn’t get much better than this: a hands-on half-hour at the controls of an Airbus A380 simulator, yours for
Since the pandemic has clipped airlines' wings,
So far, almost 100 customers have savored the thrill of a virtual takeoff and landing at an airport of their choosing. A session last week featured
The oldest trainee so far has been 77, the youngest 7.
The cockpit is an exact copy, pilots said, even down to the feel of the buttons.
For aspiring flyer Chawanrut Suttiworrapong, one of a group of 11 booked in last week, it was a tantalizing glimpse of her dream job.
“I am very excited, especially when you get to see something that looks so close to real flying,” said the 25-year-old student from
The pilot managing the project says it’s the kudos, not the cash, that count.
“The income is secondary. The real objective is to keep the relationship with
Despite often ranking among the world’s top airlines,
Losses have piled up since the pandemic forced it to all but suspend its operations. By May it was carrying an estimated debt burden of almost
Only when its reorganization plan is approved will the airline's cost in staff, routes and reputation become clear.
But to judge by the buzz at its new restaurant you’d never know anything was amiss.
The Royal Orchid Dining Experience opened in September, transforming what was the old staff canteen. Managers say 800 people dine there a day.
For those who pine to dine above the clouds, it has it all: cabin crew bringing cold drinks on
There are three classes of food and service: First, Business and walk-in, priced accordingly.
The atmosphere is so festive it’s easy to forget the reason it’s there. Like the simulator access, it engages staff and brings in revenue.
“When COVID-19 spread, I think just since this
For diners it’s about more than just food: It satisfies a craving for faraway places and happier times.
“This recalls my memory of being on board, on the plane, and I enjoy the time. I feel like even walking the aisle, I feel like I was on the plane and I enjoy so much,” said 58-year-old businesswoman Namphon Rassadanukul.
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