How to bag cheaper flights

From early redemptions to tapping deal-hunting networks, here is how Singapore travellers fly cheaper and smarter can

- Sarah Stanley

For many travellers, hunting for cheap flights has become a sport. With airlines dangling weekly promotions and tweaking their rewards charts, those who know where to look can save hundreds or even fly for almost free.

This game is especially rewarding in South-east Asia, where air travel is dominated by low-cost carriers.

"Travellers have access to a wide mix of low-cost carriers (LCCs) alongside strong full-service airlines, often competing on the same routes. This creates intense competition, but it's not just about fares. Airlines also compete on schedule, convenience, service quality and overall experience," says Mr Ritchie Ramsamy, regional director for Asia-Pacific at Airline Tariff Publishing Company (ATPCO).

ATPCO is an airline pricing and data leader that works with more than 440 airlines. Its headquarters are in Virginia, the United States, and it has offices in London and Singapore.

According to aviation data consultancy OAG Aviation's Megahubs 2024 report, 16 of its top 25 LCC airport mega hubs are from Asia-Pacific, with budget airlines accounting for 61 per cent of South-east Asia's airline seats.

The market share held by LCCs in South-east Asia is nearly two-thirds, compared with a global average of 30 to 40 per cent, estimates Mr Kadam Aggarwal, a partner at Asia-focused management consulting firm YCP Auctus. He specialises in aviation and airports.

"By nature of how they operate, LCCs drive down prices and that makes for greater competition," he says.

Full-service airlines such as Singapore Airlines (SIA), Emirates and Cathay Pacific are also compelled to join the fray, offering regular promotional fares and exclusive discounts to their frequent flier programme members to maintain their edge.

So, how exactly can you take advantage of the fierce competition? Here are five tips to help you travel farther for less.

1. SUPERCHARGE YOUR MILES EARNING