Table of Contents
TL;DR
- Scoot: Subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, 72 destinations, 10kg carry-on, hot meals from $12, Wi-Fi available.
- Jetstar: Qantas-owned, 38 destinations, 7kg carry-on, hot meals from $13, entertainment on Boeing 787 for $10.
- AirAsia: Largest Malaysian airline, 166 destinations, 7kg carry-on, hot meals from RM15 (~S$4.30), entertainment tablet RM59 (~S$16.92).
- Firefly: Subsidiary of Malaysia Airlines, 18 destinations, 7kg carry-on, 10kg check-in free, hot meals RM15 (~S$4.31).
- ZIPAIR: Japan Airlines’ budget airline, 10 destinations, 7kg carry-on, free Wi-Fi, entertainment system onboard.
- T’Way Air: Korean airline, 46 destinations, 10kg carry-on, 30kg check-in free, hot meals from ₩12,000 (~S$11.72).
Understanding Budget Airlines
Budget airlines, also known as low-cost carriers, offer significantly cheaper fares by cutting out some of the amenities provided by full-service airlines, such as in-flight entertainment, complimentary meals, and luxury amenities. This allows travelers to save money, especially when opting for a no-frills flight.
Price Comparison of Budget Airlines
To illustrate the savings, here’s a comparison of airfares from major budget airlines flying from Singapore, compared to Singapore Airlines as a full-service benchmark. Prices are based on the same travel dates in economy class without add-ons.
Top Budget Airlines
1. Scoot
Scoot, a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, offers budget-friendly flights while allowing passengers to collect KrisFlyer miles. Known for its comfortable and well-maintained aircraft, Scoot is a reliable choice for longer journeys.
Destinations: 72
Baggage: 10kg carry-on, no check-in baggage. Add-ons from 20kg.
Inflight Meals: Hot meals from $12
Entertainment: Wi-Fi available for purchase, no built-in entertainment system.
2. Jetstar
Jetstar, under the Qantas parent company, covers extensive routes throughout Asia. They offer a Price Beat Guarantee, matching lower prices found on the same route, ensuring you get the best deal.
Destinations: 38
Baggage: 7kg carry-on, no check-in baggage. Add-ons from 15kg.
Inflight Meals: Hot meals from $13
Entertainment: Available on Boeing 787 Dreamliner flights for $10.
3. AirAsia
AirAsia is Malaysia’s largest airline by destinations and fleet size, often offering low fares during sales. Though their aircraft interiors may be older, they remain a popular choice for budget travel.
Destinations: 166
Baggage: 7kg carry-on, no check-in baggage. Add-ons from $55 for 15kg.
Inflight Meals: Hot meals from RM15 (~S$4.30).
Entertainment: Tablet device with entertainment system for RM59 (~S$16.92).
4. Firefly to Malaysia
Firefly, a subsidiary of Malaysia Airlines, operates flights from Seletar Airport to KL, offering free 10kg check-in baggage and affordable meals. Flights land at Subang Airport, closer to KL City Centre.
Destinations: 18
Baggage: 7kg carry-on, 10kg check-in. Add-ons from 20kg.
Inflight Meals: Hot meals for RM15 (~S$4.31).
Entertainment: No entertainment systems onboard.
5. ZIPAIR to Japan
ZIPAIR, the budget subsidiary of Japan Airlines, provides free Wi-Fi and an entertainment system on all flights. They charge baggage by the number of bags, not weight, offering flexibility for travelers.
Destinations: 10
Baggage: 7kg carry-on, no check-in baggage. Add-ons for $51 per bag, up to 5 bags.
Inflight Meals: Hot meals from ¥1,300 (~S$11.23).
Entertainment: Free Wi-Fi and online entertainment system available.
6. T’Way Air to Korea
T’Way Air, known for competitive airfare and occasional live entertainment on flights, offers 30kg free check-in baggage for all passengers, making it a favorite for travel to Korea.
Destinations: 46
Baggage: 10kg carry-on, 30kg check-in. Add-ons available.
Inflight Meals: Hot meals from ₩12,000 (~S$11.72).
Entertainment: No in-flight entertainment system, but occasional live shows.
Choosing the Right Budget Airline
When selecting a budget airline, consider your specific needs and preferences. The cheapest fare may require additional costs for necessary add-ons, so weigh your options carefully to ensure the best value for your trip. Happy travels!
