Features

Low-cost flying in Asia

1 Nov 2004 by business traveller

Did you know that it ischeaper to fly the 200 miles from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur via Bangkok (a detour of 1,600 miles) than direct? That's the effect low-cost airlines are having.
This flight would cost S$160 (£53) return with Tiger Airways and Air Asia, via the Thai capital, compared with S$304 (£100) for a round-trip ticket with Singapore Airlines and/or Malaysian Airlines.
It's the same throughout the region, with low-cost airlines benefiting travellers flying between Bangkok, Singapore, KL, Jakarta and Hong Kong. Other destinations will soon follow, although obtaining traffic rights can be an issue (Asia isn't open skies like the EU). Valuair, for example, hopes to fly from Singapore to Perth by the end of this year. It's also looking at serving Guangzhou and Shanghai in China, as part of its aim to serve destinations within five hours of Singapore.
If you intend to fly with low-cost carriers within Asia, be aware that carriers quote fares net of taxes and fees. "Thailand is a different market," says Udom Tantiprasongchai, President of Thai airline OneTwoGo. Speaking at the recent Low Cost Airlines World Conference in London, he said low internet use in Thailand means passengers book by phone, then pay at a convenience store or bank ATM. "We don't expect internet use to rise there above 20%," he said, adding: "Only 10 to 15% of Thais have ever flown."
It might change. Low-cost carriers have a bright future in Asia; cities are poorly served by rail, roads are congested and can be dangerous, and travellers may be prepared to sacrifice comfort for a cheaper fare.
The final impetus is being provided by the authorities. Singapore's Changi Airport plans to open a low-cost terminal in 2006, while Bangkok's current airport will be handed over to the low-cost carriers when the city's new facility opens in a few years' time.

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