Visit the Air Force Museum to see the Thai-made bomber aircraft that flew as far as India.

Ducks still linger around the museum.

The lack of tourists makes it a joy to take photos, as you can take your time without anyone bothering you (since there's no one around!).

The entrance fee is incredibly affordable, and some places are so amazing that it's hard to believe they don't attract more visitors.

Therefore, today I would like to propose the Royal Thai Air Force Museum.

Nestled behind Don Mueang Airport lies a hidden gem: a free museum showcasing a diverse collection of aircraft. Among the exhibits are planes that once engaged in aerial battles with French forces, leaving their opponents fleeing in defeat. Some of these aircraft are unique, existing as the sole remaining examples of their kind in the world. Remarkably, the museum also features a domestically produced bomber aircraft, a testament to Thailand's own aircraft manufacturing capabilities.

This post lacks technical details due to a lack of knowledge. However, it is clear that the photography experience was highly enjoyable. The 1.30 hours flew by quickly.

If anyone has knowledge about airplanes, it would be very helpful to share it with your friends (and me). This would be a valuable contribution.

Before entering the building, pay homage to the statue of King Rama V and take a quick photo of the airplane next to it.

I'm not sure what model it is. Can anyone help?

A map was provided to guide our walking route, but we ended up forgetting it and wandering aimlessly.

Building 1

From here, if you turn around, you will find a table with brochures. Please take one for more information.

Turning left, I found a large hall where it seemed people were engaged in some kind of activity. I didn't dare to ask what it was.

This individual is Air Lieutenant Luang Ampaipisan, who successfully piloted the "Boripak" aircraft, a domestically produced bomber, to India. This marked the first successful international flight of an aircraft designed by a Thai individual.

The "Boripak" aircraft, what does it look like? I'll show you the real thing later.

Breguet 3 aircraft

Airplane Airport

Fighter pilot uniforms from 1922 to 1932

Our aircraft assembly plant.

The image depicts the assembly of a Breguet 14 aircraft.

The museum's highlight room showcases the only remaining "Super Grandpa" in the world, and it's right here in Thailand!

The Corsair dive bomber

Hawker 3 fighter jet

Exquisitely classic, and most importantly, they helped protect the Kingdom of Siam from French invasion.

Five of our planes, disciples of King Louis, took off. We went up in two planes and shot down one French plane. We saw our friends being shot down, and the other four planes fled back to base.

Bearcat fighter aircraft

This young man has a serious expression, suggesting a potential future in the air force.

T-33/T-Bird Trainer Aircraft

F-86F Sabre

The next room showcases modern-day aircraft.

Turning to the other side, you will see this parked here.

This is the world's first F-5B aircraft.

I've heard of Kripphan for a long time, but this is the first time I've seen him in person.

So handsome, even the auntie asked for a photo with him.

A staircase is available to access the cockpit.

F-16A

Outdoors

Exiting the building, I noticed the rear cargo door of an airplane standing open.

Such an invitation warrants a closer look.

It's a C-123B transport aircraft, chubby and cute.

This is the "Boripak" bomber aircraft, which is quite handsome.

Designed by Lieutenant Colonel Luang Wechayan Rangsarit (Muni Mahasanthana) in 1929.

The name "Boriboon" comes from His Royal Highness Prince Boriboon Sukhumphan.

The British Supermarine Spitfire fighter aircraft

During World War II, the aircraft was frequently shot down by German fighters. It is unclear whether the real aircraft was as vulnerable as its portrayal in the game.

The communication plane has a door on the side, allowing you to peek inside.

But don't go in all the way, because the wood is rotten and unsafe.

T-6 trainer aircraft

"It's already three in the afternoon!" Auntie A warned.

"Got it, I'm on my way!"

There are many more items to show you. After this, we will have a 30-minute time limit for taking photos.

Besides the planes I photographed individually earlier, there are many more.

At the end of the walkway, there is another large airplane that you can enter and explore.

I was in such a hurry that I forgot to take a picture of what the outside looked like.

Next to them were two large ships, likely belonging to the Royal Thai Navy, as they had the word "Royal Navy" prominently displayed on their hulls.

Building 4

Entering Building 4, which displays military uniforms on one side, the interior houses equipment for flight training.

Hypobaric Chamber

A hypobaric chamber is a specialized environment that simulates high altitudes by progressively reducing air pressure. This technology allows researchers and medical professionals to study the physiological effects of altitude on the human body.

The principle is that when there is less air, the body will lack oxygen and remain conscious for another 3-5 minutes. During this time, if you can grab an oxygen mask and put it on in time, you will be safe.

Hypobaric Chamber

Credit: http://wirush.blogspot.com/2005/07/hypobaric-chamber.html

Before departing, we saw a blue airplane, which was likely one of our own production, as it proudly displayed the "Made in Thailand" label on its wing.

Building 5

The building was closed for repairs, but we saw the door open, so we walked in dazedly.

The workers looked at us in confusion.

OH-13 helicopters

Having gone through the Korean War and the Vietnam War, we are small but brave.

H-43 helicopter

This boat... Many people must have seen it before.

I haven't been in this corner for long, but I truly miss His Majesty.

Fortunately, I came across a funny-looking helicopter pig that helped change my mood.

The H-58T is a helicopter designed for transport and rescue missions.

Utility helicopter H-19

I spotted another boat, but I'm not sure what model it is.

Go outside and walk to Building 2.

Building 2

Several airplanes are parked here and used as an aviation library, but no one uses it. It has been completely occupied by birds as their base.

Hawker 75 fighter jet

Boeing fighter jet

L-39 Albatros jet trainer and light attack aircraft

The Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21, a Soviet-designed fighter jet, was gifted to Thailand by Vietnam as a gesture of friendship.

Unusually elongated fuselage, strangely handsome. Despite its appearance, this is a supersonic aircraft.

Why does the head need to have a vertical groove like that? Doesn't it create wind resistance?

Exiting Building Two, I circled around to the front of the museum, where the scorching sunlight once again beat down on me.

Roughly captured images.

A few more things before I get on the bus. I'm going home now.

In conclusion,

Highlights:

• Extensive collection of aircraft, including vintage World War II planes, F-16s, and Gripens.
• Opportunity to explore the interiors of select aircraft.
• Excellent photographic opportunities.
• Free admission.

Dislikes:

• Limited exhibits: The museum's collection is somewhat restricted in size, which may not satisfy all visitors' interests.
• Outdoor exhibits exposed to the elements: The open-air exhibits are susceptible to extreme heat, potentially causing discomfort for some visitors.
• Niche appeal: The museum's focus on aircraft may not appeal to individuals who lack a strong interest in aviation or photography.

Others

• Larger than expected. If you like to take pictures of airplanes, allow about 2 hours. But if you just want to walk around, 1 hour is enough.
• The road in front of the museum is under construction for the skytrain.
• It's very hot in the afternoon. It's better to go before noon.

Data

Coordinates

13.9196466 100.6218107

Time

Tuesday - Sunday 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM

Closed on Monday

Expenses

Free!!

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