How many Miles to Upgrade to Business Thai Airways?

A cabin upgrade always catches the eye. But when it’s Thai Airways, the experience shifts entirely. Travelers often ask how many miles it takes to move up to business class, and the answer depends on the route, fare class, and timing. Thai Airways doesn’t treat upgrades as an afterthought. The airline’s Royal Orchid Plus program rewards loyalty in a way that feels personal. From long-haul escapes to short regional hops, those saved-up miles might just turn a regular flight into something far more rewarding. This blog by WingsTravo will help you through & through regarding the same.

Do Thai Airways Miles expire?

Thai Airways' Royal Orchid Plus miles have a lifespan of three years. Miles accumulated in any given quarter will expire at the end of the same quarter three years later. For instance, miles earned in the first quarter of 2021 would expire on March 31, 2024. These miles cannot be extended beyond their set expiration date.

Thus, members should plan their redemptions accordingly. This is to avoid losing their hard-earned miles. Regularly monitoring your account and setting reminders can help in utilizing the miles before they lapse. Thai Airways offers various redemption options, including award flights, upgrades, and lifestyle rewards, providing ample opportunities to make the most of your miles.

How to Redeem Thai Airways Miles?

Thai Airways upgrade to Business class with miles redeeming through this:

• Visit the Thai Airways website to begin.
• Access your Royal Orchid Plus account using your membership number and PIN.
• Once logged in, find the 'Spend Miles' section to view available redemption options.
• Select from options like flight awards, upgrades, hotel stays, or lifestyle rewards.?
• Check the mileage requirements and any terms associated with your chosen award.
• Follow the prompts to complete the redemption process. For flight awards, this includes selecting travel dates and passenger details.
• After you finalize, you'll receive a confirmation email with pertinent details.

Call Thai Airways customer service at 1 (800) 767-3598 or 1-888-413-6950 to do it over the call with the help of a travel expert

How many miles to Upgrade to Business Thai Airways?

When you wish to Upgrade to Thai Airways' Royal Silk Business Class using Royal Orchid Plus miles, you should know it is easy peasy. But it depends on several factors. The number of miles required varies based on the flight's distance and the original ticket's booking class. Like upgrading from Economy Class (booking classes Y, B, M) to Royal Silk on a flight between Bangkok and Singapore, requires 16,000 miles. This is categorized under Zone 1 (up to 1,000 miles).

Conversely, a longer flight, such as Bangkok to London, falls under Zone 9 (over 6,500 miles) and would necessitate 72,000 miles for the same upgrade. Only specific booking classes are eligible for upgrades, and availability may vary. Therefore, review the latest upgrade award chart. And confirm details with airline before planning on using miles to upgrade to business class Thai Airways is advisable.

Can I use Star Alliance miles on Thai Airways?

Yes, Thai Airways accepts Star Alliance miles. If your miles belong to any Star Alliance partner, you can use them for Thai Airways flights. Most travelers use Star Alliance miles on Thai Airways option when they’re short on Royal Orchid Plus miles but still want to book a flight or upgrade. You’ll need to make the booking through your own airline’s frequent flyer program. That means if your miles are with Lufthansa, you book through them—not Thai Airways.

Seats for award bookings are often limited, especially during busy seasons. It helps to plan early or stay flexible with your travel dates. Availability varies across routes, so some trial and error might be involved. But if you're patient, it's worth it. Just check with your airline's rewards team for details, and they’ll guide you on how many miles you’ll need for your route. Call Thai at 1 (800) 767-3598 or 1-888-413-6950 to know it all.

Thai Airways makes the upgrade process feel less like a transaction and more like a nod to loyalty. Mileage requirements vary, but with careful planning and the right fare category, a business class seat is well within reach. Some travelers wait for that perfect route. Others upgrade on the spot. The beauty of the Royal Orchid Plus program lies in that flexibility. A quiet cabin, better meals, and full recline seats—all paid for with miles already earned. For questions or help, the WingsTravo support team or Thai Airways is reachable at 1 (800) 767-3598 or 1-888-413-6950.