Sometimes I’ve been guilty of falling in love with a product and/or service to the point where it blinds me from trying something else. When it comes to flying around select destinations in Asia, I’ve been a huge fan of Air Asia for years. Almost exclusively I’ve flown with Air Asia – on both long and short haul flights – whenever I haven’t taken more local forms of transportation such as trains or buses.
As a traveller that seeks value over comfort, I’ve come to appreciate being able to take flights (when booked well in advance) that costs a mere fraction compared with major airlines. In certain cases, I’ve found flights with Air Asia that were far cheaper than taking either the bus or train!
Recently, I was forced to look at flights with another carrier when the route I was looking for, a flight from Chiang Mai, Thailand to Penang, Malaysia, was fully booked. With an impending Visa run just mere days away, I had yet to book a flight out of Thailand.
I had heard about Nok Air, from several friends who had flown with them before; although, they had mentioned positive things about their experiences flying with Nok Air, I had yet to really consider them for my own personal connections.
Scrambling last minute, I was initially disappointed when I noticed they also didn’t have any available flights from Chiang Mai to Penang. Randomly, I started thinking of destinations in the southern part of Thailand that were close to the Malaysian border; Hat Yai and Krabi immediately came to mind.
When I discovered that a flight from Chiang Mai to Hat Yai, on a promo fare, would cost less than half of the price of a train ticket I immediately pounced. Not knowing what to expect, concerns about safety, service and reliability from this ‘new’ airline crept into my mind as time grew closer to my departure.
Now that I’m writing this post from Phuket, Thailand, having just completed my Visa run to Penang, Malaysia, I’ve only got overwhelming positive things to say about Nok Air. When compared to flights I’ve taken in the past with Air Asia, three things really stand out:
FREE WIFI IN THE AIRPORT
Free wifi in the airport? For those accustomed to flying out of the highest rated airports in the world, such as Changi International Airport in Sinagore or Incheon International Aiport in Korea, free wifi has been in play for years; however, for those in North America – or flying with budget airlines – waiting for delayed flights can be excruciatingly painful without a wifi connection.
What I loved about Nok Air, is that they had free wifi for customers waiting to board their flights. To connect, it didn’t require any fancy password or login id; I just simply had to enter my boarding number and within seconds I was surfing online.
FREE LUGGAGE
Another huge bonus was that I didn’t have to pay extra online (or at the check in counter) for luggage. Because our bag was under 15 kg it was free to have it checked. When booking flights with Air Asia, I always find it a bit misleading when I have the fare etched out in my mind and then suddenly the extras (such as luggage) tack on a significant amount more.
SNACKS ON BOARD THE PLANE
Now the real kicker was having a surprise snack and beverage on board Nok Air! I’m used to having to purchase overpriced tiny portion meals from Air Asia; and in the rare case that I actually do decide I’m hungry enough to fork over money for something to eat,
I end up paying more money out of pocket. Although the snack on Nok Air was merely nothing more than a couple of coconut pastries filled with raisins along with a water, I felt as though I was a valued customer.
Air Asia Information For Travelers
AirAsia is well-known for offering budget-friendly flights across Asia and beyond. With an extensive network covering over 165 destinations, it’s a popular choice for travelers looking to explore the region without breaking the bank. The airline frequently offers promotional fares, so keep an eye out for deals that can make your journey even more affordable.
Booking and Baggage
Booking with AirAsia is straightforward, with a user-friendly website and mobile app. However, it’s important to note that the base fare often covers only the seat; additional services like checked baggage, meals, and seat selection come at an extra cost. To avoid surprises, consider purchasing a bundle that includes these extras, or add them individually during the booking process.
- Check-In: You can check in online, via the app, or at the airport. Online check-in is recommended to save time and avoid long queues.
- Baggage Policies: AirAsia’s baggage policies are strict. Make sure to adhere to weight limits and pre-purchase any additional baggage allowance you might need. Overweight baggage fees at the airport can be steep.
Onboard Experience
While AirAsia is a low-cost carrier, the onboard experience is comfortable for short to medium-haul flights. The seats are compact but adequate, and the airline offers a range of in-flight meals, snacks, and drinks for purchase. For entertainment, you can bring your own devices, as seatback screens are not available on most flights.
- Pre-Order Meals: To ensure availability, it’s best to pre-order your meals when booking your flight. The menu includes a variety of Asian and Western dishes.
- Seat Selection: If you prefer a specific seat, such as one with extra legroom or near the front, it’s advisable to select it in advance for a fee.
Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Arrive Early: AirAsia flights can be busy, so arriving at the airport early is a good idea, especially for international flights.
- Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance, either through AirAsia or separately, to cover any unforeseen circumstances such as cancellations or medical emergencies.
- Stay Updated: Flight times can change, so regularly check your flight status on the AirAsia app or website.
Nok Air Information For Travelers
Nok Air is a popular low-cost airline in Thailand, known for its cheerful branding and budget-friendly fares. The airline primarily operates domestic flights, connecting major cities and regional hubs across the country. With a few international routes, Nok Air is a convenient choice for exploring Thailand without spending a fortune.
- Booking and Extras: Booking is simple via their website or app. While the base fare is affordable, additional services like checked baggage, seat selection, and in-flight meals are available for an extra fee. Be sure to add these services during booking to avoid higher charges at the airport.
Flexible Travel Options
Nok Air offers flexibility with a range of fare options to suit different needs. From basic fares for those traveling light to more inclusive options that bundle services like extra baggage and seat selection, there’s something for every type of traveler.
- Check-In: Passengers can check in online, via the app, or at the airport. Online check-in is recommended to save time and ensure a smooth experience.
Onboard Experience
The onboard experience with Nok Air is comfortable for short flights, with friendly cabin crew and clean, modern aircraft. Although the airline doesn’t offer in-flight entertainment systems, passengers can purchase snacks and drinks on board or bring their own.
- Comfort and Service: While seating is standard for a budget airline, the service is often highlighted for its friendliness and efficiency. The bright, cheerful branding of Nok Air extends to its cabin crew, making for a pleasant flying experience.
Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Early Arrival: It’s advisable to arrive at the airport early, particularly for domestic flights, to allow ample time for check-in and security.
- Baggage Allowance: Be aware of Nok Air’s baggage policies and consider pre-purchasing extra baggage if needed to avoid higher fees at the airport.
AirAsia vs. Nok Air: Which Budget Airline Suits Your Needs?
Route Network and Destinations
AirAsia boasts an extensive network, covering over 165 destinations across Asia and beyond, making it ideal for both domestic and international travel. Nok Air, on the other hand, primarily focuses on domestic routes within Thailand, with a few international connections, making it perfect for exploring the country in depth.
Pricing and Fare Options
Both airlines offer competitive pricing, but their fare structures differ. AirAsia often starts with a basic fare and charges extra for services like baggage, meals, and seat selection. Nok Air also has a tiered fare system but tends to include slightly more in its higher fare categories, such as additional baggage or more flexible tickets.
Onboard Experience
AirAsia’s onboard experience is fairly standard for a low-cost carrier, with compact seating and meals available for purchase. Nok Air, while similar in many ways, is often praised for its cheerful branding and friendly service, adding a touch of warmth to the experience. Both airlines lack in-flight entertainment, so be sure to bring your own devices.
Baggage Policies
Baggage policies are crucial when flying budget. AirAsia’s baggage allowance is strict, with fees for extra luggage if not pre-purchased. Nok Air also has weight limits, but their higher-tier fares sometimes include additional baggage, making it slightly more flexible for travelers with more luggage.
Customer Service and Punctuality
Both airlines are known for their reliable service, though AirAsia, given its larger network, may experience more frequent delays due to its extensive flight schedule. Nok Air generally maintains a good record for punctuality, especially on its domestic routes.
Which Airline to Choose?
- Choose AirAsia: If you’re planning to explore multiple countries across Asia or need a budget-friendly option with a wide route network.
- Choose Nok Air: If your focus is on traveling within Thailand and you prefer a slightly more personable service with a touch of local charm.
CONCLUSION
Overall, I was so thoroughly impressed with the service of Nok Air, not to mention the silky smooth flights, that I’m going to consider them AHEAD of Air Asia on routes in and around Thailand and nearby borders.
Although, I’ll likely price compare with Air Asia, and ultimately select the best value flight, if it is anywhere close to a tie I’m going with Nok Air hands down. I’ve found that it’s the little things, such as free wifi and a small snack, that can make the world of a difference when flying from point A to B.
Moreover, I realize budget airlines often come with reduced service, or as they say in the industry ‘with no frills’; however, I think that there is a difference between being frugal (or value conscious) with your service versus being flat out stingy.
I feel that Nok Air scores much higher in this area than Air Asia and it has consequently won me over as a customer.
Have you ever flown with Nok Air or Air Asia? What was your experience like?
How about your experiences flying with different airlines? Have you been as ridiculously stubborn and loyal as I’ve been in the past? What sort of things do you value when flying?
Let me know in the comments! 🙂
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