Queen Suthida begins training on Gripen fighter jet

Queen Suthida of Thailand has begun advanced flight training on the Saab Gripen fighter jet at the Wing 7 military base in Surat Thani. The training program, which runs from August 20 to September 4, 2026, follows the Royal Thai Air Force’s standard pilot training procedures.

Prior to this phase, the Queen completed training on L-39 jets at the Royal Thai Air Force Flying Training School and underwent several simulator sessions at Don Mueang. If she successfully completes the program, she is expected to perform a solo flight, which would make her the first reigning queen in the world to pilot a fighter jet.

Queen Suthida is already a licensed pilot with experience in both civilian and military aviation, including training in Germany and regular service as a co-pilot on a royal Boeing 737.