AirAsia is a major low-cost airline based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The airline has undergone massive growth since it commenced operations in 1996 and has gone on to start up other AirAsia branded airlines in Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, India and Japan. The longhaul part of the airline is known as AirAsia X and operates a fleet of large Airbus A330 aircraft, while regional routes in Asia are operated with the airlines massive fleet of A320 aircraft.
The Difference
- AirAsia have been named world’s top low-cost airline seven years running by Skytrax.
- Onboard A330 aircraft, AirAsia have a seven row designated ‘quiet zone’ which is separated from the rest of the cabin and does not allow travellers under the age of ten.
- AirAsia offer a surprisingly large number of meal options including at least ten hot dinner options, a big breakfast and even instant noodles for a quick snack.
Fare Types
LOW FARE. The most basic fare includes your seat and one piece of carry on luggage at up to 7 kilograms.
PREMIUM FLEX. This fare includes the above, as well as seat selection, express boarding, one meal, one piece of checked luggage up to 20 kilograms, unlimited flight date/time changes, an inseat power socket and of course, a lie flat chair/bed.
The Classes
PREMIUM FLATBED. The ‘Premium Flatbed’ class is essentially Business Class. When travelling in this class you’ll receive priority check in, priority boarding, priority luggage return, one meal, seat selection, a pillow and duvet for use onboard, a 40 kilogram baggage allowance, a free change of flight date/time.
Destinations
Kuala Lumpur and most major cities in Asia.
The Hub
KUALA LUMPUR AIRPORT. Commonly known as KLIA, this airport is one of the largest, most modern, and efficient airports in the world. The most important thing for AirAsia passengers to know is that their flights fly into KLIA2, a dedicated low-cost airline terminal located two kilometres away from the main terminal. The main terminal, called KLIA, hosts most international airlines, as well as Malaysia Airlines. There is a train connecting the two terminals which runs every 15-20 minutes and takes a mere three minutes to complete the journey. It then runs into downtown Kuala Lumpur. The inter-terminal ticket costs MYR2 (less than NZD$1.00). Both terminals have a large number of shops and restaurants with many major international brands represented, but if that’s not enough, there’s a large outlet mall just six kilometres away. If you’re stopping over for longer than six hours, you can also do a quick sightseeing tour of KL. Getting through security and customs is a breeze. Free WiFi is available throughout.
