Best Low Cost Airlines in Asia in 2025, No. 8 Will Surprise You!!

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Asia has long been the world’s most competitive battleground for low-cost aviation, with carriers transforming the way millions travel across the region. From bustling hubs in Southeast Asia to emerging markets in North Asia, these airlines have made flying affordable, convenient, and far more accessible.

In 2025, Skytrax has once again recognised the best low-cost airlines in Asia, highlighting those that combine value with reliability. Here is a closer look at the top ten carriers shaping budget-friendly travel across the continent this year.

Top 10 Low-Cost Airlines in Asia 2025

1. AirAsia

AirAsia has cemented itself as Asia’s biggest low-cost success story, with operations stretching across Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

Its trademark red fleet connects an enormous network of destinations, from short domestic hops to international services reaching Australia, the Middle East, and beyond.

The airline’s model is simple but effective—keep fares low, provide optional extras, and make flying available to nearly everyone.

Passengers value the straightforward service, with friendly crew and an easy-to-use digital booking system. AirAsia also invests heavily in connectivity, often serving secondary airports where demand is high but fares remain accessible.

Over the years, it has developed a reputation for innovation, introducing digital add-ons and loyalty benefits.

2. Scoot

Scoot, Singapore Airlines’ low-cost arm, has grown into a major player across Asia-Pacific. With its distinct yellow branding and playful image, Scoot stands out in the budget airline market while still delivering dependable service.

Operating a mix of short- and medium-haul routes, the airline connects Singapore with key cities in Asia, Australia, and even the Middle East.

Its fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners and Airbus A320s allows for a balance of comfort and affordability, giving passengers the chance to enjoy modern cabins even on budget fares.

Travellers can customise their experience with optional extras like meals, baggage, or Scoot-in-Silence quiet-zone seating.

What makes Scoot unique is its long-haul low-cost offering, providing affordable alternatives to destinations that were once expensive to reach. In 2025, Scoot remains one of the most dynamic carriers in Asia’s low-cost landscape.

3. IndiGo

IndiGo dominates the Indian market and has become one of the world’s largest low-cost airlines by fleet size and passenger numbers. Known for its “on time, every time” slogan, IndiGo has built a reputation for reliability in a country where air travel demand has surged dramatically.

Its all-Airbus A320 and A321neo fleet ensures consistency, efficiency, and cost savings that translate into lower fares.

Passengers appreciate the simple, no-nonsense cabins, with add-ons like meals and baggage available at extra cost.

IndiGo’s domestic reach is unmatched in India, linking major metros with tier-two and tier-three cities, while international expansion continues steadily across Asia and the Middle East.

For millions of Indian travellers, IndiGo has become the default choice for affordable flying, offering dependable service without unnecessary frills. Its scale and efficiency keep it firmly at the top of Asia’s low-cost scene.

4. HK Express

Based in Hong Kong, HK Express plays an important role in providing budget-friendly connections to cities across North and Southeast Asia. The airline focuses on short-haul flights, linking Hong Kong with Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and more.

Known for its clean and efficient service, HK Express delivers reliable flights with competitive pricing, appealing to leisure travelers and young flyers seeking affordable getaways. Its all-Airbus fleet is configured for simplicity, with optional extras like meals, luggage, and seating upgrades.

The airline’s branding leans towards youthful and approachable, helping it resonate with a new generation of travelers.

As part of the Cathay Pacific Group, HK Express benefits from strong operational backing, yet still retains its low-cost spirit. In 2025, it continues to be a key option for those seeking accessible flights out of Hong Kong.

5. Jetstar Asia

Jetstar Asia, based in Singapore, is part of the broader Jetstar network that also includes Jetstar Airways in Australia. The airline focuses on short-haul regional routes across Southeast Asia, connecting Singapore to destinations like Bangkok, Jakarta, Manila, and Kuala Lumpur.

Passengers know Jetstar Asia for its straightforward fares, flexibility, and solid punctuality record. Its cabins are functional and modern, with extras like meals, baggage, and preferred seating available for purchase.

The carrier appeals strongly to budget-conscious leisure travellers, as well as Singaporeans seeking quick, affordable regional getaways. Despite operating in a competitive market, Jetstar Asia has held its ground by consistently offering affordable flights backed by reliable service.

With its network and branding tied to the larger Jetstar Group, it remains a steady player in Asia’s bustling low-cost segment.

6. Peach Aviation

Peach Aviation, based in Osaka, is Japan’s leading low-cost airline and has played a huge role in shaping the country’s budget travel scene. Its bright pink branding and fun image make it instantly recognisable, and the airline focuses on connecting Japanese cities with regional destinations across Asia.

Popular routes include flights to South Korea, Taiwan, and China, appealing especially to younger travellers and tourists looking for low fares.

Peach cabins are simple yet comfortable, with pay-per-use extras like meals and baggage. The airline is known for its strong punctuality and efficient operations—important traits in Japan’s aviation market.

By making flying more affordable for domestic and regional passengers, Peach has transformed travel habits, offering an alternative to trains and traditional full-service carriers.

7. West Air

West Air, headquartered in Chongqing, has become a key budget airline within China’s vast domestic aviation market. Its low-cost model is designed to make air travel accessible to a growing number of Chinese travelers, offering competitive fares and reliable operations.

The airline operates an extensive domestic network, connecting Chongqing with cities across the country, and has also expanded internationally into neighboring regions. Cabins are kept simple, with straightforward seating layouts and optional extras for baggage and food.

Passengers often highlight the value-for-money proposition, particularly for short trips. West Air is part of the HNA Group, which provides operational support, but the airline maintains its identity as a no-frills, customer-focused carrier.

In a market as competitive as China, West Air has carved out a strong niche, giving millions of travellers affordable access to the skies.

8. ZIPAIR

ZIPAIR, Japan Airlines’ low-cost subsidiary, has gained attention for its unique approach to budget flying. Based in Tokyo Narita, ZIPAIR focuses on medium- to long-haul routes, connecting Japan with destinations like Bangkok, Seoul, Honolulu, and Los Angeles.

The airline operates a fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners, offering modern cabins with customisable options such as lie-flat seating available at lower costs compared to full-service airlines.

Its digital-first approach means passengers can enjoy cashless transactions and streamlined bookings, reflecting its fresh, tech-savvy identity. ZIPAIR stands out because it blends the efficiency of a low-cost airline with some of the perks usually seen in premium carriers.

For travelers wanting affordable long-haul travel without compromising too much on comfort, ZIPAIR continues to be a strong contender in Asia’s fast-growing budget segment.

9. Spring Airlines

Spring Airlines is China’s largest low-cost carrier and a pioneer in the country’s budget aviation market. Based in Shanghai, it operates an extensive domestic network as well as international routes to Japan, South Korea, Southeast Asia, and even Russia.

Known for its strict no-frills approach, Spring keeps fares extremely competitive by offering only the essentials, with passengers paying for extras like meals and baggage.

Its cabins are simple but efficient, and the airline is recognised for maintaining punctuality despite operating in some of Asia’s busiest airports. Spring appeals to price-sensitive travellers, particularly students and families seeking affordable holidays. By consistently keeping costs down, it has become a household name in China’s aviation scene.

10. Citilink

Citilink, a subsidiary of Garuda Indonesia, has grown into one of Southeast Asia’s most recognised budget airlines. Based in Jakarta, it operates a large domestic network covering Indonesia’s many islands, as well as international flights to neighbouring countries like Singapore, Malaysia, and Australia.

The airline’s appeal lies in its balance between affordability and reliability, benefiting from Garuda’s operational standards while offering significantly lower fares.

Cabins are kept simple, with buy-on-board meal options and add-ons like extra baggage or seat selection. Citilink’s green branding has made it distinctive in the market, while its customer service earns positive feedback compared to some rivals.

For Indonesians, it has become a trusted choice for affordable domestic travel, and in 2025, Citilink continues to represent one of the strongest low-cost options in Southeast Asia.

Bottom Line

Each airline has carved out its own space in Asia, whether through scale, like IndiGo, or innovation, like ZIPAIR.

Together, these ten airlines demonstrate the strength and diversity of budget flying in Asia, ensuring millions of people can explore the region affordably in 2025.