Two regional Asian airlines are offering their passengers the option to purchase premium services.
Singapore-based low cost carrier Tiger Airways now allows passengers flying out of Changi Airport T2 on Tiger, Mandala, or SEair flights to pay S$48 (US$39) extra for Tiger Plus premium service. The benefits include a dedicated check-in counter and the option to check in anytime from 0400 onwards on the day of the flight. Passengers will also have access to the airport’s SATS Premier Lounge, which has shower facilities and complimentary drinks, and will enjoy priority boarding.
The upgrade can be purchased either via the airline’s website or at the airport service desks.
Meanwhile, Bangkok Airways has announced that it will begin offering a "premier class" on flights between Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur (via Samui) from October 28. This flight previously only provided economy class. The premier fare for a one-way flight from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur is about 46 per cent more than the economy fare. Benefits include separate, dedicated check-in counter at the airport and checked baggage allowance of 30kg instead of the 20kg.
Passengers can make use of the Blue Ribbon lounge that offers complimentary snacks and drinks and computers with free Internet. Onboard the aircraft, these passengers will be seated on rows 1 to 3, each with the middle seat left empty to provide extra space. They will also enjoy a special in-flight menu as well as priority baggage claim on arrival.
For flights between Bangkok and Phnom Penh, however, there will be a downgrade. From December 1, the A319 flying this route will no longer have the Blue Ribbon business class with 2-2 configuration but premier class, which means smaller seats and there will no longer be personal TVs loaded with in-flight entertainment.
As the airline has not yet been able to upgrade their website booking system, passengers wanting the premier class service on these routes should select business blue fares.
Bangkok Airways premier class
For more information, visit www.tigerairways.com and www.bangkokairways.com
Nicholas Olczak