Prior to the Setting Up of the Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited On 17 December 1903, the Wrights Brothers succeeded in flying an engined aircraft which was the real beginning of flying in the world. As a result, various nations were quick to appreciate the future importance of flying. Eight years later, a Belgian pilot, Van den Born flew to Thailand, taking the “Orville Wright” to perform the first flight show from 2 – 8 February 1911 at Sa Pathum Horse Racing Course, now known as the Royal Bangkok Sports Club.
Thailand displayed an active interest in having airplanes for self – protection and air transport. On 28 February 1911, Thailand sent three officers to train in France. They were Major Luang Sakdi Sanlayawut (Sunee Suwanprateep), Captain Luang Arwut Sikikorn (Long Sinsuk) and First Lieutenant Tip Ketuthat. The three officers attended a flying training course in France where flying was at an advances stage of development.