THAI's New Tourism Envoy

In support of the market promotional campaign "Celebrate The Amazing River of Kings" launched by Tourism Authority of Thailand, THAI Airways International have painted the painted the royal barges on one of it's newest Boeing 747-400. The aircraft has name "Hariphonchai" which was royally by HM The King.

The idea was initiated by THAI's Commercial Department and created by J Walter Thompson Co in Bangkok. Design was by Boonchai Chantarvech and the artist was Taweelarp Srivudhuwongse. Staff of THAI's Technical Department at U-Tapao Second Maintenance Facility carried out painting, 13-27 September 1999. The painting of the Royal Barge is 52m long, 6.75 m high. It took 400m of tracing paper, 1,150 m of masking tape, 276 man-hours and 198 gallons of paint. And on 1st October 1999 it was unveiled at Bangkok's Don Muang Airport by HE Suthep Thaugsuban, Transport and Communications Minister.

Mr Thamnoon Wanglee, THAI's President said " We Believe that this unique craft which is well-known throughout the world for its unique beauty and intricate workmanship and as also been dedicated as the World Ship Trust Maritime Heritage Award will help encourage more visitors to come to Thailand".