The World's Number One Low-Cost Airline AirAsia

AirAsia is the brainchild of Malaysian businessman Tony Fernandes, who has been awarded several prizes in recognition to his entrepreneurial spirit. Fernandes acquired AirAsia in 2001, and he managed to turn around a failing business venture into one of the world's most famous entrepreneurship projects. International destinations in nearby South East Asian countries were added in 2004, and three years later the airline broke passenger number records by nearly reaching 14 million. The company's main hub is Kuala Lumpur, from where it operates more than 80 aircraft and flies to a similar number of destinations in the Asia-Pacific region and the Middle East.

The airline's success is partly due to its low fares and extensive route network. Moreover, AirAsia offers a range of add-on services specifically designed for budget travellers including low-cost accommodation, insurance and SIM cards. The Malaysian airline is the only carrier to have won the World's Best Low Cost Airline Award for seven consecutive years.

Flying with AirAsia

Seat classes include Economy and Premium Flatbed (which is the equivalent of Business Class). Premium Flatbed seats come with a complimentary meal, free baggage allowance and priority check-in. Travellers on these tickets also get access to the airline's lounges.

All-In or Low Fares tickets are the cheapest, but fees apply if passengers wish to change a name or date. Premium Flex is a standard fare that offers more flexibility, free seat selection and access to dedicated check-in and immigration counters. Premium Flatbed fares are the highest but come with additional benefits as described in the previous paragraph. Check here for an overview of AirAsia's fare classes and their respective inclusions and exclusions.

Ticket prices are based on demand, route and how far in advance a ticket is booked. In addition, the airline offers heavily discounted promotional fares a couple of times every year through its BIG Sale programme. AirAsia BIG is the airline's loyalty programme, which allows travellers to accumulate points when flying and using travel services from partner companies such as Tune Hotels, Booking.com or AVIS.

Practical Information

Self check-in is available at airport kiosks, online and using the AirAsia mobile app. Please note that self check-in is mandatory for travellers flying out of Klia2 airport (Kuala Lumpur). Counter check-in is available on all other flights.

Baggage:

• Checked baggage: limits depend on route and fare class, but the absolute maximum weight allowance for each piece of checked luggage is 32 kg (70 lbs), and maximum dimensions are 81 x 119 x 119 cm (H x W x D). There is a checked baggage fee, which can be paid online for discounted rates or at the airport at the standard rate. More information on baggage charges is available here [https://www.airasia.com/ot/en/baggage-info/checked-baggage.page].

• Carry-on: one bag per traveller, not exceeding 56 x 36 x 23 cm (L x W x H) plus a small bag or personal item not exceeding 40 x 30 x 10 cm.