Southeast Asia spans 11 countries on the Asian mainland and countless islands. Do you plan to visit and travel around South East Asia? You can depend on dozens of budget airlines flying around the region. It's an affordable way to travel with fares usually cheaper than the European and American low-cost carriers.
Southeast Asia is home to the largest budget airline market, offering multitudes of flights around the region. Low-cost carriers are so popular in Southeast Asia that they account for nearly 60 percent of all the fleet and passenger traffic in the region.
Fares from Southeast Asia's budget airlines are some of the cheapest in the world. If you've a limited budget or want to stretch your money, the low-cost carriers are the way to go around the region. Traveling has never been easier and more affordable, thanks to the spread of budget airlines.
Flying With Budget Airlines
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| Lion Air at Changi Airport, Singapore | Aldo Bidini |
More than 20 budget carriers cross the skies of Southeast Asia. Besides the domestic and international routes in Southeast Asia, many also fly on international routes outside the region, namely destinations in East Asia, South Pacific, and some even to Europe. There are exceptions like Wings Air (Indonesia) and Cebgo (Philippines) flying only the domestic routes.
With more than 20 budget carriers, you can expect a vast network of routes in the region. Destinations not only include major cities but also many second-tier cities. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the jungles of Borneo, you're likely to find a budget airline that can take you there. Going to popular destinations, you'll find numerous daily flights.
Many offer a variety of fare options, allowing you to choose between basic fares or add-on services, depending on your needs or preferences. Whether you prefer to travel light with a carry-on bag or need additional baggage allowance, there's the flexibility to customize your travel style.
Airlines based in the region are up-to-date on technology. You can book a flight through their user-friendly websites and mobile apps. You can easily compare prices, select seats, and add extras like baggage or in-flight meals. Many also offer online check-in, reducing time spent at the airport and making the journey smoother.
Despite the no-frills reputation of budget airlines, in-flight services in Southeast Asia are surprisingly good. Passengers generally enjoy comfortable seating though the leg-room could be better. On some flights, there are even complimentary snacks and beverages. Though luxuries may not be the norm, flying with the low-cost carriers in the region is generally a comfortable experience.
Leading Budget Airlines in Southeast Asia
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| AirAsia flight at Langkawi Airport, Malaysia | Jovi Choo |
AirAsia Group
Headquartered near Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, AirAsia is the largest low-cost carrier in Southeast Asia. Besides the parent company, it also operates joint ventures with AirAsia Thailand, AirAsia Indonesia, and AirAsia Philippines, operating from hubs in their respective countries.
The AirAsia Group flies to more than 150 destinations. It's just in Southeast Asia but other parts of Asia and the South Pacific. Fares are very competitive, with frequent promotions. With attractive pricing and an extensive network, AirAsia often stands out as a top choice for the budget-conscious traveler.
Lion Air Group
Based in Jakarta, Indonesia, Lion Air is Southeast Asia's second-largest budget airline. Its subsidiary, Wings Air, operates domestic flights from Makassar, connecting second and third-tier cities in Indonesia's eastern region. It also has a joint venture with Thai Lion Air, operating from Bangkok's Don Mueang International Airport.
Lion Air and Air Wings together fly to more than 130 destinations within Indonesia, including many hidden gems. Thai Lion Air flies to nearly 15 first and second-tier cities in Thailand. Both Lion Air and Thai Lion Air operate flights to other parts of Southeast Asia as well as cities in China, Japan, South Korea, and India.
Cebu Pacific Group
Cebu Pacific is the largest airline in the Philippines and third largest low-cost carrier in Southeast Asia. Founded in 1988, it's Asia's oldest budget airline. It operates from 2 primary hubs, one in Cebu and the other in Manila. Its subsidiary, Cebgo, operates a turboprop fleet covering the domestic routes.
From 3 domestic destinations in 1996, Cebu Pacific and Cebgo together fly to more than 30 destinations in the Philippines. On international flights, Cebu Pacific flies to 26 cities in 16 countries across Southeast Asia and East Asia, as well as several cities in the Middle East and Australia.
Vietjet Air Group
Launched in 2011, Vietnam's Vietjet Air has its base in Hanoi. The airline operates from 2 main hubs, including Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi and Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City. The airline also operates with its associate Thai Vietjet Air, based at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Though one of the youngest budget airlines in Southeast Asia, Vietjet Air is the fourth largest low-cost carrier in the region. VietJet primarily serves destinations in Vietnam and Thai Vietjet in Thailand. Together on the international routes, they connect passengers to many cities in Southeast Asia, East Asia, India, and Australia.
Other Major Low-Cost Carriers
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| FireFly at Subang SkyPark | tacojaco |
Besides the four budget airlines mentioned, other prominent low-cost carriers are worth considering. These airlines can provide you with more choices of flights when planning and booking your flight.
Jetstar Asia (Singapore): The Singaporean airline is an offshoot of Jetstar in Australia. Operating out of Changi Airport, Jetstar Asia operates flights to Southeast Asia, East Asia, South Asia, Australia, and New Zealand.
Scoot (Singapore): The airline is a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines. From Changi Airport, Scoot flies mostly within the Asia-Pacific region with a couple of flights to cities in India, Greece, and Germany.
Nok Air (Thailand): The Thai carrier operates out of Bangkok's Don Mueang International Airport. The airline only flies on domestic routes connecting first and second-tier cities in Thailand.
Firefly (Malaysia): The airline is the low-cost carrier of Malaysia Airlines. Most flights are within Malaysia from its main hubs at Subang Skypark and Penang Airport, and its secondary hub at Kota Kinabalu Airport.
Things to Consider When Flying with Budget Airlines
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| Departure from Phuket Airport, Thailand | shapurma |
Traveling around Southeast Asia has never been more accessible, thanks to the rise of budget airlines. Besides the extensive routes, they have revolutionized air travel in the region by offering affordable fares. Like all budget airlines all over the world, there are several things to consider when flying.
Research the Right Airline: Not all budget airlines are created equal. Each carrier has its unique offerings, routes, and service quality. So research different airlines, compare their baggage allowances and onboard amenities.
Understand the Fare: Budget airlines have a tiered fare structure. While the base fare may seem incredibly low, additional charges for baggage, seat selection, and in-flight services can add up. So review the base fare and optional add-ons.
Pack Smartly: Budget airlines have strict baggage policies including weight allowance. To avoid excess baggage fees, pack lightly and efficiently. Consider investing in a lightweight suitcase. Also, check restrictions for carry-on items.
Arrive Early: Budget airlines operate on tight schedules, aiming for quick turnarounds between flights. Avoid unnecessary stress by arriving at the airport well in advance to allow time for check-in, security procedures, and potential delays.
Be Flexible: Being flexibile with the travel dates and times can lead to significant savings. Budget airlines often introduce lower fares when demand is low, such as flights during mid-week and low travel season.
No-Frills Experience: Be prepared for a simplified travel experience, where meals, entertainment, and even extra legroom may cost extra. With the right mindset, you can still have an enjoyable journey with the no-frills experience.
