The Air Force explains that on 14 August, Prime Minister Anutin will not fly the F-16 fighter jet due to not being physically ready and must fully comply with aviation safety standards. They emphasize there is no intention to arrange special flights or increase flight hours as a special case.
On 10 August 2026, reporters from the Air Force reported that there had been news about the Air Force considering inviting Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, who is a pilot, to fly the F-16 fighter jet to gain firsthand experience and better understand the Air Force’s capabilities.
The Air Force would like to inform that during the visit to Wing 1 in Nakhon Ratchasima Province on 14 August 2026, the Prime Minister will not fly the F-16 fighter jet. Flying with the Air Force’s fighter jets requires following complete safety procedures and aviation standards, especially medical health checks and readiness, training in the altitude chamber, and ejection training, all of which require significant time to complete. Given the limited time before the visit on 14 August 2026, it is insufficient to complete these processes. The Air Force thus prioritizes safety above all and will carry out all procedures according to the same standards applied to Air Force pilots.
However, during this visit, the Prime Minister will receive briefings on the Air Force’s situation and missions, including the capabilities and roles of the F-16 fighter jets. He will also meet and encourage the pilots, staff, and personnel of Wing 1, providing an important opportunity to understand their missions, preparedness, and operations based on firsthand experience.
The Air Force emphasizes that if the Prime Minister has the opportunity to fly the F-16 fighter in the future, it will be done only when appropriate, strictly following safety standards and training procedures. There is no intention to organize special flights or increase flight hours, nor to incur unnecessary burdens or government expenses.
Nevertheless, the Air Force believes that firsthand operational experience helps policymakers and security decision-makers fully understand the Air Force’s capabilities, limitations, and readiness. This leads to effective decisions aligned with the situation. The Air Force prioritizes safety, professionalism, and international standards, and all activities will be conducted strictly under these principles.