First Flight (2008 Film)

First Flight (Thai: Rak haeng Siam) is a 2008 Thai historical drama film directed by Tanit Jitnukul. Released on January 31, 2008, the film explores the early history of aviation within the Kingdom of Siam during the early 20th century.

Promotional poster for the film First Flight showing aviation themes. — Promotional poster for the film First Flight.

Plot and Historical Background

Set in 1914, the narrative follows Lieutenant Colonel Luang Gat Yuthakarn, one of three Thai officers sent to train at a flying school in France. Upon returning, he establishes a flying division in Siam. The protagonist faces various obstacles, including resistance from royal family members skeptical of aviation. With assistance from his French flight instructor, Pierre Pupong, Luang Gat trains a select group of cadets, including five commissioned officers and a non-commissioned officer from a humble rural background.

Cast

Sornram Theppitak
Tom Claytor
Krit Suwannapab