RIS alumnus and senior pilot a life-saving medical transport mission
When urgent medical needs arise, timing, precision, and trust can mean the difference between life and loss. Earlier this year, RIS alumnus Tapatt (Por Por) Tanaboriboon (Class of 2017) and current senior Pongpanlop (Paul) Charoenpacharaporn (Class of 2026) flew together on a critical medical flight transport mission supporting heart transplant operations coordinated with medical teams, including the Thai Red Cross and Chulalongkorn Hospital.
The mission involved the rapid and secure transport of a donated heart from Udon Thani to Bangkok—an operation requiring seamless coordination between pilots, ground teams, and medical professionals. With weather conditions and scheduling constraints limiting available aircraft, Por Por and Paul stepped in with a Diamond DA-62 aircraft to ensure the life-saving organ reached its destination safely and on time.
Operating under intense time pressure, both pilots demonstrated professionalism, calm decision-making, and a deep sense of responsibility. Their work reflects the realities of humanitarian aviation, where every flight demands absolute precision and clear communication, and where teamwork extends far beyond the cockpit.
Notably, Paul’s role in this mission is especially remarkable. At just 17 years old, he is already a licensed pilot—an achievement that is rare in Thailand, where aviation training is highly regulated and requires extensive technical instruction, flight hours, medical clearance, and rigorous certification standards. Participating in a real-world medical transport mission at such a young age speaks volumes about his discipline, capability, and maturity.
Together, Por Por and Paul exemplify how RIS alumni and students apply their skills beyond the classroom in meaningful and impactful ways. Their commitment to service highlights the power of education grounded in purpose—where knowledge, responsibility, and compassion come together to support communities when it matters most.
