The 10 Cheapest Airlines to Fly Across Asia in 2025

Ready to dive into Asia’s incredible mix of cities, beaches, and cultural hotspots—all without blowing your budget? Whether you’re dreaming of the vibrant streets of Tokyo, Bali’s epic coastlines, or the iconic temples in Bangkok, finding the right flights is key to making it happen affordably. I’ve traveled to Asia several times and have picked up some solid tips along the way for scoring the best deals.

In this guide, I’ve analyzed 250 flight routes across 35 countries to bring you the 10 cheapest airlines for flying around Asia in 2025. With these airlines, you’ll be able to reach amazing spots like Seoul, Hanoi, and Kuala Lumpur without overspending. So if you’re ready to see more of Asia for less, here’s who to fly with and how to make it all happen on a budget!

#1 tip to find cheap flights to Asia

Looking for cheap flights in Asia? Before diving into all the top airlines that fly to Asia, I want to share a quick tip on how to save money on airfare.

For the past 4.5 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to get amazing flight deals. All you have to do is enter your home airport and where you want to go, and from there, they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals. And the coolest part? It’s 100% FREE! In 2024, I’ve saved thousands of dollars from their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $718 roundtrip fare from Boston to Bali.

There’s a free and a premium version – the free one has pretty much everything you’ll need. Though if you’re like me and travel a lot, it’s worth upgrading to the paid version for $49 per year. I recommend signing up for the free trial to try it for yourself. And if you like it, use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Now without further ado, here are the cheapest airlines in Asia in 2025.

Low-Cost Airlines in Asia: The Cheapest and Best Airlines to Fly

Looking to travel around Asia anytime soon? Flying in Asia doesn’t have to break the bank. With that in mind, here are my picks for the 8 cheapest airlines in Asia right now:

1. 🇸🇬 Scoot

• 🏠 Base: Singapore Changi Airport (SIN)
• 💼 Best For: Ultra-low-cost medium and long-haul flights across Asia-Pacific
• 🛋️ Cabin Options: Economy only (with paid upgrades for ScootPlus seats with extra legroom)
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: Personal item included; carry-on and checked bags cost extra
• 💳 Loyalty Program: Part of Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer program
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book during their “Take Off Tuesday” sales and travel light to avoid add-on fees

Yellow planes, rock-bottom fares, and surprisingly decent service have made Scoot a standout star in Asia’s crowded budget airline scene. This Singapore Airlines offspring has rapidly expanded from regional upstart to transcontinental budget powerhouse, connecting over 70 destinations while keeping fares remarkably affordable.

Unlike most budget carriers limited to short hops, Scoot’s fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners lets them offer genuine long-haul budget options, flying as far as Berlin and Athens from their Singapore hub. These modern aircraft provide better cabin pressure, higher humidity, and larger windows than typical budget planes, making those 12-hour flights considerably more bearable at fares often 40-60% below legacy carriers.

Their fare sales have reached legendary status among savvy travelers. “Take Off Tuesday” promotions regularly feature Singapore to Bangkok tickets for under $50 USD, while even Australia routes can dip below $150 one-way during aggressive promotions. The catch? Everything costs extra, from seat selection to water to baggage, with a strict pay-for-what-you-use model.

Thanks to their connection with the KrisFlyer loyalty program, travelers with points from programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards can transfer miles to Singapore Airlines and use them to book Scoot flights. This opens up ways to redeem points for short-haul flights around Asia or to offset the cost of longer routes like Singapore to Tokyo or Sydney. 

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to Singapore
• You may also like: Jaw-Dropping Destinations in Asia
• For more reading: Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Singapore
• Keep reading: Beautiful Places to Visit in Thailand
• Also worth reading: Cheapest Airlines in Europe

Looking to save BIG on airfare? I recommend signing up for Dollar Flight Club. Thanks to DFC, I’ve saved $5,000+ on travel in 2024…so I couldn’t recommend it more!

2. 🇲🇾 AirAsia

• 🏠 Base: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL)
• 💼 Best For: Ultra-low-cost short and medium-haul travel throughout Southeast Asia
• 🛋️ Cabin Options: Economy only (with paid upgrades for Hot Seats with extra legroom)
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: Personal item included; carry-on and checked bags cost extra
• 💳 Loyalty Program: BIG Loyalty program with points earned on flights and partner purchases
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book their “ASEAN Pass” for fixed-price multi-city travel across Southeast Asia

AirAsia is one of Asia’s largest and most successful ultra-low-cost carriers. With fares regularly starting at $30 to $70 USD one-way, it’s become a go-to for backpackers, digital nomads, and budget-conscious travelers looking to explore Southeast Asia affordably.

Based out of Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), AirAsia flies to over 130 destinations across Asia through its various subsidiaries. Their extensive network covers virtually every major tourist destination in Southeast Asia, making it the backbone of budget travel in the region. They operate a fleet of Airbus A320 family aircraft with all-economy seating, offering paid upgrades to Hot Seats with additional legroom or Quiet Zone seating.

The key to keeping your trip cheap? Book early and travel light. AirAsia typically releases the lowest fares 3-6 months in advance, with prices increasing as departure dates approach. Your fare includes only a personal item, with carry-ons and checked bags available for an additional fee (typically $8-30 USD per bag depending on route and timing).

The airline is known for offering promotional fares during regular sales, sometimes as low as $1 USD base fare (before taxes and fees). Their unique ASEAN Pass provides fixed-price credits that can be used across their network, making it ideal for multi-city exploration. While their BIG Loyalty program isn’t as generous as major carriers, it does offer redemption opportunities with various partners, adding value for frequent travelers in the region.

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to Bangkok
• You may also like: Best Airlines to Fly to Bali
• For more reading: Picture-Perfect Spots in Tokyo

3. 🇵🇭 Cebu Pacific

• 🏠 Base: Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Manila (MNL)
• 💼 Best For: Ultra-low-cost domestic and international flights from the Philippines
• 🛋️ Cabin Options: Economy only (with paid upgrades for seats with extra legroom)
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: Personal item included; carry-on and checked bags cost extra
• 💳 Loyalty Program: GetGo rewards program with points earned on flights and partner purchases
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book during their famous “Piso Fare” promotions for tickets starting as low as $0.02 USD (plus taxes and fees)

Looking for the ultimate budget airline hack in Southeast Asia? Cebu Pacific‘s legendary “Piso Fare” sales have achieved almost mythical status among savvy travelers. During these promotions, base fares start at just one Philippine peso (approximately $0.02 USD), though taxes and fees still apply.

The Philippines‘ largest low-cost carrier connects over 60 destinations with its bright yellow planes and uniquely Filipino approach to budget travel. From their Manila hub, tourists can reach spectacular islands like Boracay and Palawan for less than the cost of a decent meal. Their international network stretches from Australia to the Middle East, with particularly strong coverage across Southeast Asian hotspots.

Expect a modern fleet featuring Airbus A320s for regional hops and A330 widebodies for longer international routes. The in-flight experience prioritizes efficiency over luxury, with paid options for everything from bottled water to preferred seating. What sets them apart from other budget carriers? Their signature in-flight Fun Games with prizes maintain a festive atmosphere even on the most basic fare.

Successful Cebu Pacific travelers know timing is everything. Their mobile app alerts for flash sales can be your ticket to exploring tropical paradise on a shoestring budget. While the GetGo loyalty program won’t rival premium airlines, it does offer reasonable redemption options for frequent flyers. 

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to the Philippines
• You may also like: Best Things to Do in Cebu
• For more reading: Picture-Perfect Places to Visit in Dubai

4. 🇮🇳 IndiGo

• 🏠 Base: Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (DEL)
• 💼 Best For: Low-cost domestic travel within India and growing international routes
• 🛋️ Cabin Options: Economy only (with paid upgrades for Fast Forward seats near the front)
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: Personal item included; 15kg checked bag available for purchase
• 💳 Loyalty Program: 6E Rewards program with four membership tiers
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book their “6E Prime” bundle for included meals, preferred seating, and priority services

Ever heard your friend brag about visiting five Indian cities in a week without breaking the bank? They probably flew IndiGo. This blue-and-white fleet rules India’s skies with over 50% market share and a reputation for actually arriving when they say they will (a minor miracle in budget air travel).

Dreaming of the Taj Mahal, Kerala’s backwaters, or Mumbai’s electric energy? IndiGo connects over 100 destinations across India and beyond, often with prices that make train travel seem expensive. Their modern fleet is packed with brand-new Airbus A320neos that burn less fuel, keeping both emissions and ticket prices lower than competitors. You’ll typically shell out between $30-75 for most one-way hops.

The onboard vibe is decidedly no-frills but never feels cheap. Cabins are spotless, crews are professional, and the paid food options won’t leave you hungry (their masala chai isn’t half bad either). For just a few bucks more, their 6E Prime packages throw in the essentials like seat selection, a meal, and priority check-in—totally worth it if you value your sanity during India’s chaotic peak travel seasons.

What truly puts IndiGo on the Asia budget travel map is their rapid international expansion. They’ve pushed beyond India to connect with major Asian hubs like Singapore, Bangkok, and Dubai, often undercutting legacy carriers by 40% or more. 

• Read next: Unmissable Activities in Phuket
• You may also like: Best Airlines to Fly to Asia

5. 🇸🇬 Jetstar Asia

• 🏠 Base: Singapore Changi Airport (SIN)
• 💼 Best For: Budget-friendly flights connecting Singapore with popular Southeast Asian destinations
• 🛋️ Cabin Options: Economy only (with paid upgrades for extra legroom seats)
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: No free baggage allowance; all bags must be purchased separately
• 💳 Loyalty Program: Earn Qantas Points if you join their frequent flyer program
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Sign up for “Club Jetstar” membership ($49.99 annually) for exclusive sales and discounts

Think of Jetstar Asia as the cool Australian cousin who moved to Singapore and knows all the best spots around Southeast Asia. This Singapore-based offshoot of Australia’s Jetstar brings that distinctive orange branding and reliable low-cost service to some of the region’s most popular routes.

Singapore’s gleaming Changi Airport serves as their launchpad to destinations like Bangkok, Bali, Ho Chi Minh City, Phuket, and Manila. Their network isn’t as vast as some competitors, but they’ve strategically focused on high-demand leisure and business routes where they can offer consistent service. Fares typically start around $45-80 USD one-way, with regular sales dropping prices to tempting lows.

Where Jetstar Asia shines is their balanced approach to the budget model. Yes, you’ll pay for everything from baggage to seat selection, but their service feels less aggressively stripped-down than some ultra-budget carriers. Their all-Airbus fleet features clean, well-maintained cabins, and the Singapore-level efficiency means fewer delays and cancellations than you might experience elsewhere in the region.

Got Qantas points burning a hole in your pocket? Jetstar’s connection to the Qantas family means you can use and earn points across their network. The annual Club Jetstar membership pays for itself after just a couple of flights through access to exclusive member-only fares and discounted add-ons. 

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to Singapore
• You may also like: Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Singapore

6. 🇯🇵 Peach

• 🏠 Base: Kansai International Airport, Osaka (KIX)
• 💼 Best For: Budget travel within Japan and to select Asian destinations
• 🛋️ Cabin Options: Economy only (with paid upgrades for Fast Seats with priority boarding)
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: Personal item included; carry-on and checked bags available for purchase
• 💳 Loyalty Program: None currently offered
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book during their “Happy Peach” sales for domestic Japanese flights as low as $25 USD

Japan isn’t exactly known for budget-friendly anything, which makes Peach Aviation such a delightful surprise. This vibrant purple-branded carrier has revolutionized travel costs in a country where train tickets often leave tourists gasping at their emptied wallets.

Fancy hitting Tokyo, Kyoto, Sapporo, and Okinawa in one trip? Peach makes it possible without financial ruin. From their Osaka hub, they connect major Japanese cities and vacation spots at fares that typically run 40-60% cheaper than Japan’s legacy carriers. They’ve also stretched their wings to Seoul, Taipei, Shanghai, and Bangkok, making multi-country Asia trips more accessible for budget travelers.

Their Airbus A320 fleet might lack frills, but Japanese attention to detail ensures everything is spotlessly clean and efficiently run. The streamlined service includes paid options for snacks and drinks, though many savvy travelers load up on amazing (and cheaper) convenience store treats before boarding. Seat pitch is tight but manageable for shorter flights around Japan and nearby countries.

What truly sets Peach apart is bringing Japanese reliability to the budget airline model. Flights run on time, staff are unfailingly polite, and the overall experience feels several notches above many comparable budget carriers in other countries. When their Happy Peach sales hit, domestic fares can drop to around $25-50 USD one-way, unlocking affordable access to everything from Hokkaido’s powder snow to Okinawa’s tropical beaches. 

• Read next: Affordable Places to Fly from Japan
• You may also like: Top Things to Do in Osaka
• For more reading: Tips to Find Cheap Flights to Japan

7. 🇮🇩 Lion Air

• 🏠 Base: Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Jakarta (CGK)
• 💼 Best For: Ultra-low-cost domestic travel within Indonesia and budget regional flights
• 🛋️ Cabin Options: Economy only (with options for extra legroom seats on select aircraft)
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: 7kg carry-on included; checked bags available for purchase
• 💳 Loyalty Program: Lion Passport with modest benefits for frequent flyers
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book at least 14 days in advance for the best fares and avoid flying during Indonesian holidays

Island-hopping across Indonesia without Lion Air is like visiting Italy without trying pasta—technically possible, but why would you? As the undisputed king of Indonesia’s skies, this massive carrier and its subsidiaries operate over 330 daily flights across the world’s largest archipelago.

Want to catch sunrise at Borobudur, then sunset on a Bali beach? Lion Air’s extensive network covers every corner of Indonesia, from major hubs to remote outposts, often at prices that seem impossibly low. Fares between Jakarta and popular destinations typically hover around $30-70 USD, with flash sales occasionally dropping prices below $20 for one-way flights.

The Lion experience is refreshingly straightforward. Their Boeing 737 fleet offers basic but functional transportation, though punctuality isn’t always their strong suit. The 7kg carry-on allowance is more generous than many Asian budget carriers, and their checked bag fees won’t break the bank. While onboard service is minimal, flights within Indonesia are typically short enough that you won’t mind.

Beyond Indonesia, Lion Air’s reach extends to regional destinations like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Bangkok through their various subsidiaries. For budget travelers exploring Southeast Asia, they’ve become an essential piece of the puzzle, especially for reaching Indonesia’s more remote islands where tourism infrastructure remains limited. 

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to Indonesia

8. 🇦🇪 Air Arabia

• 🏠 Base: Sharjah International Airport (SHJ)
• 💼 Best For: Low-cost travel across the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia
• 🛋️ Cabin Options: Economy only (with paid options for seat selection)
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: 10kg carry-on included; checked bags available for purchase
• 💳 Loyalty Program: Air Rewards points-based program with reasonable redemption options
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Fly from their Sharjah hub instead of Dubai to save on taxes and airport fees

Who says Middle Eastern air travel has to involve caviar and shower spas? Air Arabia shatters the region’s luxury airline stereotype with refreshingly affordable fares that have opened up travel to a wider audience across three continents.

Skip the glitz of Dubai International for the more practical Sharjah Airport just 30 minutes away, where Air Arabia connects budget travelers to over 170 routes spanning from Casablanca to Kathmandu. Their strategic position makes them perfect for affordable trips to India, Pakistan, Egypt, and throughout the Gulf region, with fares often 40-60% lower than full-service carriers.

Their all-Airbus A320 fleet delivers a surprisingly comfortable experience despite the budget prices. Legroom exceeds many European and Asian low-cost competitors, and the complimentary 10kg carry-on allowance feels downright generous in today’s nickel-and-dime airline world. The buy-on-board Sky Café offers decent Middle Eastern and international options, though bringing your own snacks is always smarter for your wallet.

Where Air Arabia truly stands out is making historically expensive regions accessible on modest budgets. Their Air Rewards program offers better value than many budget carrier schemes, and their consistent expansion has created new affordable corridors between Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa. 

• Read next: Hidden Gems to See in Central Asia
• You may also like: Best Airlines to Fly to Morocco
• For more reading: Magical Places to Visit in the UAE

9. 🇵🇭 PAL Express

• 🏠 Base: Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Manila (MNL)
• 💼 Best For: Low-cost domestic island hopping within the Philippines with better included amenities
• 🛋️ Cabin Options: Economy and Premium Economy on select routes
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: 7kg carry-on and 10kg checked bag included on most fares
• 💳 Loyalty Program: Mabuhay Miles shared with parent Philippine Airlines
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Look for their “seat sales” that often include baggage allowance in the advertised price

Craving that sweet spot between bare-bones budget and wallet-crushing premium? PAL Express bridges that elusive middle ground, operating as Philippine Airlines‘ regional subsidiary with more included perks than ultra-budget competitors but without the financial pain of full-service fares.

Fancy beach-hopping from Boracay to Palawan to Siargao? PAL Express connects all major tourist hotspots across the Philippines’ 7,000+ islands, often landing at smaller airports closer to your final destination. Their promotional fares can dip as low as $40-70 USD, comparable to Cebu Pacific but with notably better inclusions.

The most refreshing difference? Your ticket actually includes something! The standard baggage allowance covers both a carry-on and a modest checked bag, perfect for island-hopping without constant baggage fees. Their fleet of Airbus A320s and De Havilland Dash 8 turboprops are well-maintained, with seats that won’t leave taller travelers contemplating amputation on longer routes.

What seals the deal for many travelers is the full-service touch despite budget-friendly prices. Complimentary water and simple snacks come standard, inflight magazines actually exist, and the cabin crew seem genuinely happy to see you. For visitors exploring beyond Manila and Cebu, PAL Express strikes that perfect balance between affordability and comfort, especially valuable when hopping between those Instagram-worthy Philippine beaches.

10. 🇮🇩 Batik Air

• 🏠 Base: Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Jakarta (CGK)
• 💼 Best For: Premium budget travel within Indonesia and select Asian destinations
• 🛋️ Cabin Options: Economy and Business Class with actual reclining seats
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: 7kg carry-on and 20kg checked bag included on all fares
• 💳 Loyalty Program: Lion Air Passport (shared with parent company)
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book their Economy seats for Business Class-like perks at 30-40% less than full-service carriers

Tired of sacrificing dignity for affordability? Batik Air brings a splash of Indonesian elegance to budget travel, challenging the notion that flying inexpensively means settling for a cramped, bare-bones experience.

Unlike its no-frills sibling Lion Air, Batik targets the “premium budget” sweet spot across Indonesia’s sprawling archipelago. From their Jakarta hub, they connect major Indonesian cities and tourist destinations with select international routes to Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, and India. Fares typically start around $60-90 USD, a bit higher than ultra-budget options but with significantly more inclusions.

The Batik difference hits you immediately with actual legroom that accommodates human knees, seatback entertainment systems on most aircraft, and complementary meals that go beyond sad plastic-wrapped sandwiches. Their newer fleet of Boeing 737s and Airbus A320s features proper Business Class cabins with direct aisle access and Economy sections that wouldn’t offend a full-service carrier.

Batik is particularly valuable to travelers because of its built-in value that eliminates budget airline stress. No panicking about baggage weight or fighting for overhead bin space as your generous allowance comes standard. And no scrambling to buy water or snacks either before boarding because a proper meal service is included. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Cheapest Airlines in Asia

Here are some common questions and answers about the best budget airlines in Asia.

Which airline is the cheapest in Asia?

When it comes to finding the cheapest airline to fly to Asia, it often depends on your departure city and destination. However, airlines like AirAsia, IndiGo, and Cebu Pacific are renowned for offering competitive prices without compromising on service quality. Keep an eye out for their frequent promotions and seasonal sales to snag the best deals.

Where is the cheapest place in Asia to fly to?

The cheapest place in Asia to fly to can vary based on your location and the time of year. Typically, larger hubs like Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Manila tend to offer more affordable flight options due to higher competition among airlines. Don’t overlook smaller destinations like Ho Chi Minh City and Jakarta. These cities can also provide great value for money.

What month is the cheapest to fly to Asia?

If you’re looking for the cheapest flight to Asia, consider planning your trip during the shoulder seasons — typically late spring (April to June) and early fall (September to November). These periods often offer a pleasant climate and fewer crowds, not to mention lower airfares compared to the peak tourist seasons.

Do any airlines offer cheap flights to Asia from the US?

Direct budget flights from the US to Asia are less common, but that doesn’t mean affordable options don’t exist. Traditional carriers often have special promotions and off-season fares that can be surprisingly affordable. Here’s how you can navigate this:

• Watch for deals from major airlines like United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines, which occasionally offer competitive prices on their Asian routes.
• Explore options with airlines like Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, or Emirates. While not budget carriers, they have aggressive sales that lead to lower prices.
• Consider “split ticketing,” where you fly to an Asian hub like Tokyo, Seoul, or Hong Kong on a major carrier and then switch to a regional budget airline like AirAsia or Peach for your onward flight within Asia.
• Use multiple flight comparison sites to ensure you’re getting the broadest view of available fares and don’t forget to check the airlines’ own websites, as some offers are exclusive to their platforms.
• Be flexible with your travel dates and consider flying out on a weekday, as flights are often cheaper outside of the weekend rush.
• Sign up for price alerts on routes you’re considering, so you’re notified as soon as prices drop.

Are cheap Asian airlines safe to fly?

Budget doesn’t mean risky. Cheap airlines in Asia, such as Peach, Batik Air, and PAL Express, adhere to international safety standards, undergoing regular scrutiny from aviation authorities. They’re committed to passenger safety, maintaining operational standards that meet, and sometimes exceed, global benchmarks. As such, cheap airlines in Asia are safe to fly.

How can I find the best flight deals in Asia?

Finding the best flight deals requires a mix of strategy, timing, and a little bit of luck. Here are some tips to secure fantastic flight deals within Asia:

• Subscribe to budget airlines’ newsletters and follow them on social media for flash sales and promotional fares.
• Use incognito mode on your browser when searching for flights to avoid price hikes based on your browsing history.
• Be flexible with your destinations. Look for countries where the cost of living is low, as flights there tend to be cheaper.
• Opt for local budget airlines like Lion Air, Scoot, or IndiGo once you’re in Asia for cheaper regional flights.
• Consider the time of year; avoid peak tourist seasons in your destination country as prices will be higher.
• Book well in advance for popular events or during peak seasons to avoid price surges.
• Check alternative nearby airports, which might offer cheaper fares.
• Use flight comparison apps and websites to compare prices across multiple airlines.
• Consider round-trip tickets, as they are often cheaper than one-way fares.
• Look into travel packages that include flights, accommodation, and transportation, as they can offer significant savings.

Which is the best budget airline in Asia?

Deciding on the best budget airline in Asia really comes down to personal preference. For me, AirAsia stands out from the rest. This airline is my favorite because it strikes the perfect balance between affordability and a quality travel experience. Their wide network across Asia makes them an excellent choice for regional travel, and I’ve found their services to be consistently reliable. The staff is friendly, the planes are comfortable, and they have fantastic in-flight catering. What more could you ask for? If you’re looking for something a bit more upscale, consider China Airlines Business Class, which is based in Taiwan!