Low Cost Premium Cabins on AirAsia X and Scoot
By Sharon Petersen Tue Aug 8, 2023
When we envision low-cost carriers, the typical associations often include cramped seats, hefty luggage charges, and limited onboard choices. However, it might come as a surprise that certain low-cost carriers extend their offerings to include a premium cabin for longer flights.
Both Scoot and AirAsia X provide a premium class cabin on their respective aircraft, the 787 and A330. In this assessment, we will delve into the level of comfort each airline offers and how their prices compare. To ensure a fair comparison, we will evaluate AirAsia X on the Kuala Lumpur to Melbourne route and Scoot on the Singapore to Sydney route, considering they cover a similar distance in terms of air miles flown (3918 and 3906 miles, respectively).
AirAsia X
The AirAsia flight is operated with an A330 aircraft in a 2-2-2 seating configuration. The total fare came to $2125 AUD which includes the following
- A flatbed although not a lie flat bed in that there is still an angle ( see images)
- Privacy screen
- Pillow and duvet
- 40kg checked baggage allowance
- 7 kg carry on baggage allowance
- Seat selection
- One meal from the buy on board menu ( same menu economy and business)
- One bottle of water
- Ticket change flexibility
- Priority boarding
Scoot
The Scoot flight is operated with a Boeing 787 aircraft in a 2-3-2 seating configuration. The total fare came to $1329 AUD which includes the following
- A wide leather seat (22 inches) with substantially more leg room than economy (38 inches) and extra seat recline but NOT lay flat. There is also an adjustable leg rest.
- 30 kg checked baggage allowance
- 15 kg carry-on baggage allowance
- Seat selection
- One meal from the buy-on-board menu ( same menu economy and business)
- One drink including alcoholic and free water throughout the flight
- Wifi
- In seat power
- Priority boarding
- Ticket change flexibility
The verdict?
While both airlines promote a premium cabin, significant distinctions exist between their offerings which is equally reflected in the price. AirAsia's ticket comes at a premium, costing $796 more than Scoot's; however, the additional investment provides an exceptional level of comfort, including lie-flat beds, duvets, and pillows. For the traveler seeking rest and a fresh start upon arrival, AirAsia X emerges as the preferred choice. On the other hand, for those with work commitments in mind, Scoot presents a better option, equipped with convenient amenities like WiFi and in-seat power. It's evident that both airlines cater to a burgeoning market with equal popularity and high demand.
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