On 25 April 2025 a Royal Thai Police Viking DHC‑6 Twin Otter aircraft went down during a test flight for parachuting training close to Hua Hin Airport in Prachuap Khiri Khan, killing all six people on board. The Twin Otter, a widely used utility plane prized for its ability to operate in diverse conditions, was being employed for a parachute‑training mission that forms part of the police force’s broader operational portfolio. Parachuting drills are essential for officers who may be called upon for search‑and‑rescue missions, disaster response and other specialised tasks.
Authorities have opened an investigation into the accident. Early inquiries will focus on the aircraft’s technical condition, maintenance history and the flight crew’s experience.
The Royal Thai Police have pledged a thorough review of their aviation procedures and safety protocols to avert future tragedies. The crash underscores the inherent risks of aviation training activities and highlights the importance of rigorous safety standards for personnel operating and maintaining police aircraft. Beyond the immediate incident, the event draws attention to the scale and scope of the Royal Thai Police.
With a workforce ranging between 210,700 and 230,000 officers, the force accounts for roughly 17 % of Thailand’s civil service, not counting the military or state‑run enterprises. Police recruits undergo demanding training that blends paramilitary drills comparable to army preparation with a strong emphasis on law‑enforcement techniques.
Leadership of the national police has seen recent changes. Kitrat Panphet was appointed acting police chief on 20 March 2024, while the reinstatement of Torsak Sukvimol remained pending prime‑ministerial approval as of 24 June 2024. In the broader context of Thailand’s development, reliable air assets such as the Twin Otter remain vital. They support a range of missions from law‑enforcement patrols to rescue operations and can also be leveraged in infrastructure projects, including those related to renewable‑energy initiatives that aim to reduce the country’s reliance on fossil fuels.
Looking ahead, the Royal Thai Police will need to balance operational demands with a reinforced commitment to safety. Continued investment in training, modern equipment and stringent safety measures will be crucial to protect personnel and maintain public confidence.
As the investigation proceeds, findings will inform any revisions to operating procedures and may prompt additional oversight of police aviation activities. The ultimate goal, according to officials, is to ensure that such a loss of life does not recur while sustaining the police force’s capability to serve Thailand’s security and emergency‑response needs.
