AirAsia

AirAsia pioneered the ULCC model in Southeast Asia and remains the dominant budget carrier for the region, operating from hubs in Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Jakarta, Manila, and Bali to 165+ destinations across Asia. The fare structure is genuinely transparent by regional standards: the BIG Deals fare sales (announced monthly via email list) produce routes like Kuala Lumpur to Bali for $15, Bangkok to Tokyo for $60, and Singapore to Taipei for $45. The Klia2 budget terminal in Kuala Lumpur, while distant from the city, functions as a genuine hub for connecting budget travel across the continent. The honest limitation: AirAsia ancillary fees for checked baggage are steep relative to the base fare; the baggage bundle booked in advance is significantly cheaper than at the airport. The AirAsia Unlimited Pass (annual subscription for unlimited flights on select routes) is the best aviation product value in Asia for travelers with flexible schedules.