Bangkok Airways Logo PNG
The Bangkok Airways logo features Bangkok’s unique ancient architecture combined with a flight theme. The light strokes of the domes, resembling the flaps of an exotic bird’s wings, make the company’s planes stand out in the global aviation scene.
Bangkok Airways was founded in 1968 as Sahakol Air. It became Thailand’s first private airline and began with small Cessna and Piper aircraft used for domestic charter flights. In 1986, the company rebranded as Bangkok Airways and entered scheduled passenger service to major Thai resort destinations, including Samui, Krabi, and Phuket.
In 1989, Bangkok Airways launched its first international route to Siem Reap, Cambodia, home to Angkor Wat. That flight marked the start of its regional expansion beyond Thailand. During the 1990s, the airline added services to China, Vietnam, Myanmar, and Laos. Its fleet grew to include larger aircraft, including the ATR 72 and Boeing 717, giving the company greater capacity on regional routes.
In 2000, Bangkok Airways opened Samui Airport, described in its history as the first privately owned airport with regular commercial flights. In 2004, the company opened a second private airfield in Sukhothai, improving access to northern Thailand and nearby historical sites. In 2006, Bangkok Airways joined Oneworld, which expanded passenger connections and raised its international profile.
In 2014, Bangkok Airways became the first Thai airline to be listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand following its IPO. In 2016, it launched flights to Da Nang, extending its presence in Vietnam’s aviation market. In 2018, the airline marked its 50th anniversary with an updated identity and aircraft livery. In 2019, it continued fleet renewal by adding two Airbus A319 aircraft and four ATR 72-600 aircraft for regional operations.
Meaning and History
What is Bangkok Airways?
Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited is a well-known regional airline based in Bangkok, Thailand. Founded in 1968, the airline originally operated as Sahakol Air, providing contract air cab services to organizations such as the Overseas International Construction Company (OICC), the United States Operating Mission (USOM), and several oil and natural-resource exploration organizations in the Gulf of Thailand. The carrier operated scheduled flights to destinations in Thailand, Cambodia, Hong Kong, Laos, Maldives, Myanmar, Singapore, and Vietnam. The transformation of Sahakol Air into the modern Bangkok Airways signifies a shift from a specialized service provider to an integrated airline serving a broader market.
1968 – today
The main symbol of Bangkok Airways consists of three curved lines in red, blue, and gold. Two of these colors are borrowed from Thailand’s flag. The emblem’s shape is reminiscent of the country’s distinctive architecture, characterized by domes with pointed tops. The graphic symbol resembles a stylized feather or flame. The airline’s name is written in blue letters on the right side and is divided into two levels. The font has a unique design with smooth curves, sharp serifs, and jagged edges.
The colors of the Thai flag speak to a strong sense of national identity. The font’s distinctive design speaks to the airline’s commitment to providing a unique experience for its passengers. Stylized elements such as a feather or a flame symbolize freedom and dynamism, echoing the airline’s corporate identity.
FAQ
Is Bangkok Airways the same as Bangkok Airlines?
Bangkok Airways is a reputable Thai airline known for its regular flights and excellent service. It owns and operates several private airports, including Samui Airport.
Bangkok Airlines is a reservation agency, not an airline. Understanding the difference between the two is important for clients. If you need to book flights or handle official airline business, contact Bangkok Airways directly through its official channels. Bangkok Airways acts as a ticket broker, offering flights on various airlines.
What is the slogan of Bangkok Airways?
The airline’s slogan is “Asia’s Boutique Airline.” This slogan has been used since 2004, when it celebrated its 36th anniversary. The company emphasizes personalized service and meticulous attention to detail.
What is the acronym for Bangkok Airways?
The airline is known by the acronym “PG,” derived from its IATA designation. IATA assigns each company a unique two-letter code for ticketing and flight scheduling. “PG” is used for international and domestic flight bookings and aviation databases. It also has an ICAO code, “BKP,” a three-letter code used worldwide in air traffic control and airline operations. Its full legal name is Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited, and it is based in the Asia-Pacific region.
Is Bangkok Airways Thai Airways?
These are two different airlines based in Thailand. Bangkok Airways is a regional airline primarily operating short flights within Thailand and nearby countries. The focus is on connecting small towns and popular tourist destinations in the region. Thai Airways, the national airline of Thailand, has wider global route coverage. It connects Thailand to many destinations worldwide and serves long-haul flights, playing a key role in international travel to and from the country. Both companies are important to Thailand’s aviation sector, although they have different roles and serve different types of routes.