Sra Pathum Airfield
Sra Pathum Airfield is a former airport, and the first in Thailand established in 1911 at the site of Sra Pathum Racecourse in Bangkok, Thailand.
History of Sra Pathum Airfield
[edit]In 1911, Belgian pilot Charles Van Den Born performed a flight show in the presence of high-ranking officers and the Siam royal family before landing on the Sra Pathum Racecourse.[1]
Soon after, three military officers were sent to attend aviation courses in France before returning in 1913 with 3 Breguet planes and 4 Nieuport monoplanes which the Thai government had ordered.[1] One Breguet plane was donated by a Siamese governor bringing the number to 8.[2]
In late 1913, the first test flight was made, and the Thai aeronautical engineering and flight training was established by the three officers. A temporary hangar was constructed behind the Pathumwan Police Patrol School. An aviation unit was formed through the Siamese Army.[2]
Reason for Closure
[edit]In 1914, the Ministry of Defense found the location unsuitable due to the fact that Sra Pathum Airfield was located in a flood-prone area when it rained during Monsoon, and also being close to the center of Bangkok City.[3] With the finishing of Don Mueang Airport, the aviation unit was transferred and Sra Pathum Airfield closed with the Sra Pathum Racecourse run by the Royal Bangkok Sports Club continuing operations. The aviation unit later evolved into the Royal Thai Air Force.[2]
References
[edit]- ^ a b Simandan, V. M. (March 8, 2013). "A Brief History of Aviation in Thailand".
- ^ a b c "History - Royal Thai Air Force". www.globalsecurity.org.
- ^ "A grand old centenarian keeps the flag flying" – via www.bangkokpost.com.