Review of Thai Airways business class on TG954 BKK-OSL, a 12 hour overnight flight. The aircraft was an A350-900 with a front facing 1-2-1 seating configuration. I paid 80k Aeroplan points + C$112 for SIN-BKK-OSL business class, booked 10 weeks out.
During the layover in BKK, I visited the SQ and TG business class lounges. The SQ lounge was quiet, perhaps due to it being close to its 11pm closing time. The hot buffet was excellent. TG's lounge was busy and chaotic. It's narrow and long and there was always a stream of traffic going deeper into or out of the lounge. The food was mediocre and the atmosphere not relaxing. I expected more from the home carrier.
Onboard, the cabin was decked out in TG's classic purple color scheme that was quite peaceful for sleeping. Seats closer to the aisle were quite open; privacy was better at the seats closer to the window. The flight started with pre-departure non-alcoholic drink service and hot towels. I tried TG's signature butterfly pea limeade and tamarind tea. Both were tasty, if a tad sweet.
I was provided a Jim Thompson themed amenity kit with pretty useful contents. A thin mattress pad, plush blanket, and substantial pillow were waiting at the seat. The bed in flat mode was comfortable, if a little narrow. I got a solid 7 hours' sleep.
The food was the highlight of the flight. TG collaborates with some top local restaurants to create a varied and creative menu with excellent flavors. Dinner was a generous multi-course affair. The starter included a 10g tin of caviar. I had the tiger prawns in red curry for dinner and the tom klong style soup with smoked fish for breakfast. Both are highly recommended. In between meals, we were given crisps and chocolate but I was too full to try them. There were also on-demand snack options like noodles and pasta that I didn't have a chance to try.
The crew was efficient but not particularly warm, and a little mechanical at times. Meal service was prompt, which allowed us to maximize sleeping time.
Overall, a very good flight. The hard product is ok, service good, and food superlative. I would happily fly again. TG went through some hard times during and post-Covid. I am glad to see them back better than ever.
