The best airlines for Southeast Asia routes
Summary
Southeast Asia is served by a mix of budget carriers and full-service airlines. This guide compares the top options for flying within the region — by price, comfort, routes, and reliability.
Introduction
Hopping between countries in Southeast Asia is easy, fast, and often surprisingly cheap. But with so many airlines available — from ultra-low-cost to premium — how do you choose the best one for your trip?
Whether you’re a backpacker on a budget or a traveler seeking convenience and perks, here’s a breakdown of the top airlines that dominate regional skies.
1. AirAsia
✈️ Best for: Budget travelers, wide route network
- Operates across Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, and beyond
- Cheap base fares, frequent sales, and reliable mobile app
- Charges for everything extra: baggage, meals, seat selection
Pro tip:
Subscribe to their “Big Sale” announcements for absurdly low prices (e.g., $15 international flights).
2. VietJet Air
✈️ Best for: Intra-Vietnam + nearby destinations (Thailand, Singapore, etc.)
- Competitive fares and lots of routes from Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi
- Regular flash sales
- Occasionally delayed — plan with flexibility
Pro tip:
Travel light — fees for checked baggage can cancel out low ticket prices.
3. Scoot
✈️ Best for: Singapore-based flights
- Budget arm of Singapore Airlines (safe and well-run)
- Good for flights between Singapore and Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia
- Slightly higher base fares, but more polished than competitors
4. Lion Air & Thai Lion Air
✈️ Best for: Indonesia + Thailand domestic routes
- Covers hard-to-reach areas in Indonesia
- Inconsistent punctuality — allow buffer time
- Check baggage policy per route (varies!)
5. Bangkok Airways
✈️ Best for: Comfort, short routes in Thailand
- “Boutique airline” with free lounge access even for economy passengers
- Operates routes like Bangkok → Koh Samui
- More expensive than low-cost competitors, but better service
Pro tip:
Great for island hoppers who want ease and comfort without going full business class.
6. Singapore Airlines & Thai Airways
✈️ Best for: Full-service quality, international connectors
- Excellent for longer regional flights or positioning to Europe/US
- More expensive, but top-tier service, meals, luggage included
- Use miles/points if you’re part of a loyalty program
Quick Comparison Table
| Airline | Price 💰 | Routes 🌍 | Reliability ⏱ | Comfort 😌 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AirAsia | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★☆☆☆ |
| VietJet | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Scoot | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Lion / Thai Lion | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Bangkok Airways | ★★★☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| Singapore / Thai | ★☆☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Conclusion
Your ideal airline depends on what you value: price, comfort, convenience, or loyalty perks. For budget adventurers, AirAsia and VietJet dominate. If you want a smoother experience with extra service, Scoot or Bangkok Airways might be worth the bump in fare.
No matter what you choose — Southeast Asia’s skies are wide open. Happy flying 😏