History of the Royal Thai Air Force5

Relocation of Aviation Section to Don Muang

As aviation in Thailand developed, Sra prathoom Race Course was deemed too small and inconvenient. The government therefore decided to move the airfield to it permanent site which was Don Muang, for its size and location more suitable.

Thus, in early 1914, the Army supply Department began constrution of hangars, airfields and housing as well as all neccesary facilities. After completion all these facilities were transfered to Lieutenant Colonel Phraya Chalerm Arkas for use as the new home of the Aviation Unit. The relocation of the Aviation Unit was completed and began operation on 17 March 1914.

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The First Visit of his Majesty King Vajiravudh

On 2 December 1916, His Majesty the King Vajiravudh graciously visited the Army Air Division. His Majesty spent time there to view the air demonstration and toured of the maintenence facilities and the Flying Training School. Before retuning to Bangkok, His Majesty expressed his appreciation through General Prince Burachartra, Engineer Adjutant, saying :

"Today I have witnessed the remarkable progress of our aviation history. A universally accepted fact is that aviation is one area of technology that requires exceptional ability. To observe that this undertaking has been carried out entirely by Thais, without foreign assistance whatsoever, is a source of utmost pride"

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A Siammese student pilot in a Nieuport 10, Istres, September 1918
( National Archives of Thailand No.8775 )

The Combat Exercise in 1916

The Ministry of Defence order dated 19 March 1918 created the "Army Air Division" which had the following units under its command.