Royal Thai Air Force recruits female pilots for the first time

BANGKOK, 19 April 2016 (NNT) – The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) is recruiting female pilots for the first time in its history.

The application period will be held until Sunday. Ms. Suwattana Chantalert, a 23-year-old Pattani native, was the first candidate to apply for the position at the RTAF when it began accepting applications yesterday. Ms. Suwattana, who lost her father to the southern unrest when she was young, said was she inspired to become a pilot after joining the RTAF’s program ‘Tai Fah Deaw Kan’ 12 years ago.

The program helps orphans in the Deep South like her get an education. After graduating high school, she pursued a degree in aviation in order to become a pilot.

According to the RTAF, eligible candidates must be 18 – 28 years old. Those selected will be required to undergo ground training for three years before they can start working for the RTAF.

National News Bureau of Thailand