Budget airlines’ business class
Singapore Airlines has long been the gold standard for luxury travel, and many of us have fantasised about kicking back in its business class seats at least once. Some go the extra mile – literally – by clocking in credit card expenditure and racking up miles in hopes of scoring a free upgrade.
But with budget airlines’ business class, there’s no need to wait years or drain your savings just to enjoy a comfier seat and better in-flight perks. While you won’t get caviar or champagne on tap, these premium cabins promise added comfort without the sky-high price tag.
Are business class seats on budget airlines the same as the ones on full-service airlines?
Image credit: @you_ta_aviation via Instagram
No, not quite. While budget airlines do offer premium seats, they don’t always slap on the “business class” label. Scoot calls its version ScootPlus, which comes with a few extra perks you won’t find in economy.
That said, don’t expect a full-fledged business class experience like what you’d get on other full-service carriers. There’s always a trade-off, such as no in-flight entertainment screens or fewer frills, so that these airlines can still keep their fares relatively wallet-friendly. It’s more of a middle ground between economy and business class, so manage your expectations accordingly.
How much does it cost to upgrade to business class on budget airlines?
It depends on the airline, but the good news is that upgrading to business class on a budget airline won’t cost you an arm and a leg – if you plan ahead. Prices typically start from around $100, and you might even score a better deal if you book early. Of course, fares fluctuate depending on demand and season.
Is it better to book business class in advance or upgrade at check-in?
Image credit: @aly_youth via Instagram
If you must have a business class seat – especially for a long-haul flight or if there’s a promo too good to pass up – then booking in advance is always recommended. This guarantees you a spot and saves you from the stress of last-minute uncertainty.
But if you’re feeling lucky, you might be able to snag a cheaper upgrade at check-in. This works best if you’re flying during off-peak hours and are flexible with seating. Just be prepared for the possibility that all the business class seats might already be taken.
Which budget airline’s business class is worth upgrading to?
Image credit: @changiairport & @flyscoot via Instagram
We’ll be comparing 4 budget airlines’ business class seats and perks. Instead of pulling random ticket prices, we’re focusing on one-way flights to Seoul and Tokyo from Singapore, since all 4 airlines operate routes to at least one of these destinations. Jetstar is sitting this one out as its business class is only available on long-haul international flights on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft.
This way, we’re comparing apples to apples, giving you a clearer idea of what each airline offers for similar trips.
Note: Based on bookings for the same travel date, in business class and with no add-ons. Prices are accurate at the time of writing, and are subject to change.
| Feature | Scoot – ScootPlus | AirAsia – Premium Flatbed | ZIPAIR – ZIP Full-Flat | T’way Air – Business Saver Class |
| Seat configuration | 2-3-2 | 2-2-2 or 1-2-1 (varies by aircraft) | 1-2-1 | 2-2-2 |
| Seat type | Leather seats with more legroom and recline | Flatbed | Flatbed | Flatbed |
| Baggage allowance | 15kg cabin + 30kg checked | 2x 10kg cabin + 40kg checked | 7kg cabin (checked baggage at extra charge) | 2x 10kg cabin + 32kg checked |
| In-flight meal | Complimentary | Complimentary | Not included, can be purchased | Complimentary |
| Wi-Fi | Free 30MB | – | Free | – |
| Priority services | Priority boarding | Priority boarding, check-in, and baggage | Priority boarding | Priority boarding, check-in, and baggage |
| In-flight entertainment | – | – | In-flight entertainment via mobile portal | – |
| Lounge access | – | Selected airports | – | – |
| Price to Seoul (one-way) | From $454 | From $543 (1 stop) | – | From $895 |
| Price to Tokyo (one-way) | From $538 | From $769 (1 stop) | From $665 | – |
1. Scoot
Priority boarding, in-flight refreshments & comfy leather seats
Image credit: Scoot
Available on the Boeing 787 aircraft for routes like Bangkok and Seoul, Scoot’s ScootPlus offers some solid perks without the hefty price tag.
You’ll be sitting on leather seats that are 22 inches wide with a 38-inch seat pitch, giving you extra legroom and a bit more recline to stretch out. Plus, the cabin configuration is 2-3-2, so the possibility of being cramped in a middle seat is lower.
Image credit: @ayaself_dairy_life via Instagram
ScootPlus also comes with priority boarding and 15kg cabin baggage allowance, along with a generous 30kg for check-in. You’ll get complimentary in-flight refreshments prepared by Scoot Café, with seasonal dishes and a good mix of Asian, Western, and vegetarian options. Oh, you can enjoy 30MB of free Wi-Fi onboard too.
Take note that there’s no in-flight entertainment. But, since the price difference between ScootPlus and Economy isn’t huge, the benefits like free Wi-Fi and priority boarding make it worth considering for a more comfortable flying experience.
| Destination | ScootPlus | Economy |
| Seoul | From $454 | From $294 |
| Tokyo | From $538 | From $257 |
The Smart Local verdict: ScootPlus is a great option if you’re after extra comfort and perks without spending too much more.
2. AirAsia
40kg of checked baggage, flatbed & lounge access
Image credit: AirAsia
Available on select AirAsia X flights, AirAsia’s Premium Flatbed seat offers a full flatbed with a seat pitch of 59 inches and a 19-inch wide seat. The seat configuration is 2-2-2 or 1-2-1, and you’ll be given a pillow and blanket to help you catch some Zs.
The perks are equally impressive – you get a whopping 40kg of checked baggage, the highest on this list. Priority boarding is included, as well as priority baggage processing for you to embark on your adventure ASAP. You’ll also enjoy dedicated check-in and complimentary meals.
And if your plans change, AirAsia lets you amend your flight unlimited times up to 2 hours before your original departure – subject to a fare difference.
Image credit: Plaza Premium Lounge Kuala Lumpur (KUL) Arrivals KLIA2 via Google Maps
Enjoy complimentary access to airport lounges when departing from major hubs like KL, Sydney, Melbourne, and Hong Kong. Travel insurance is included for that extra peace of mind, covering baggage and flight delay.
Of course, there are a few downsides, as with any budget airline. There’s no in-flight entertainment, and depending on your route, you might end up spending more time transiting. But if you’re cool with the extra time, the perks – especially that flatbed – make it a great choice for a more relaxed flight.
| Destination | Premium Flatbed | Economy |
| Seoul | From $543 (1 stop) | From $164 (1 stop) |
| Tokyo | From $769 (1 stop) | From $535 (1 stop) |
The Smart Local verdict: What really sets it apart is the complimentary lounge access at select airports, something other budget airlines don’t offer. Go for it if you don’t mind paying a bit more for these perks and can handle longer transit times.
3. ZIPAIR
Full-flat seats & free Wi-Fi
Image credit: ZIPAIR
ZIPAIR may be a little more niche, flying from Singapore only to Tokyo, but if you’re after a good night’s sleep on your flight, the ZIP Full-Flat seats could be exactly what you need. It features a seat pitch of 42 inches and a seat width of 20 inches, complemented by a 1-2-1 configuration, so no one’s stuck in a middle seat.
One thing to note is that kids need to be at least 7 years old to sit in the ZIP Full-Flat. This means it could be a quieter, more peaceful cabin – perfect if you’re a light sleeper.
You’ll get 7kg of free carry-on baggage, but check-in baggage and in-flight meals are add-on purchases, and there’s no in-flight entertainment system. Instead, ZIPAIR offers complimentary Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment through the in-flight portal, which you can access on your own mobile device for free.
Image adapted from: @aly_youth & @namsasinut via Instagram
You might have noticed by now that, when compared to other budget airlines’ business class offerings, ZIPAIR’s upgrade might not seem as packed with perks. You’re mainly paying for the seat, and with a carry-on baggage allowance already included in economy class, it may feel like you’re not getting as much bang for your buck. But ZIPAIR offers red-eye flights, which makes it a great option if you’re looking to get some sleep before landing in Tokyo.
When you factor in baggage, seat selection, and in-flight meals, many reviews say the total cost still ends up being cheaper than full-service airlines’ business class tickets.
| Destination | ZIP Full-Flat | Economy |
| Seoul | NA | NA |
| Tokyo | From $665 | From $215 |
The Smart Local verdict: It’s worth considering if you’re looking for a peaceful flight with no kids crying in the background. And if you don’t mind trading the lack of in-flight meals or entertainment for a quiet, comfy sleep.
4. T’way Air
Lie-flat seats, extra baggage allowance & in-flight meal
Image credit: @twayair via Instagram
T’way Air operates 2 daily flights from Singapore to Incheon Airport, and its Business Saver Class seats are designed for better rest, reclining to a 165-degree angle – almost a full-flat bed. With a 2-2-2 seat configuration, you’ll have more space to stretch out and a good chance of being seated next to your travel buddy.
The baggage allowance is also pretty generous – you get 2 carry-on bags at 10kg each, along with 32kg of checked baggage. That’s a major plus if you’re planning to go all out with your K-fashion and skincare hauls.
Image credit: T’Way Air
Other perks include an amenity kit with slippers, an eye mask, a blanket, a toothbrush, and earplugs – everything you need for getting cosy on your flight. You’ll also get access to a dedicated check-in counter, priority boarding, and faster baggage processing. Like the other budget airlines’ business class on this list, there’s no in-flight entertainment. On the bright side, a complimentary in-flight meal is included to keep you fuelled for your trip ahead.
| Destination | Business Saver Class | Economy |
| Seoul | From $895 | From $195 |
| Tokyo | NA | NA |
The Smart Local verdict: The lie-flat seats are a plus, and you’re essentially paying for priority everything – faster check-in, priority boarding, baggage handling, and a heftier baggage allowance. If those things matter to you, the price jump from Economy to Business Saver Class could be justifiable.
Tips for flying budget airlines’ business class
Image credit: @a.w.thy via Instagram
Upgrading to business class has its perks, but let’s not forget that it’s still a budget airline, so don’t expect all the bells and whistles of a full-service carrier. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience:
Bring your own entertainment
None of the budget airlines on this list offers an in-flight entertainment system, so you’ll need to BYO. Download your favourite Netflix series or movies onto your phone or tablet before your flight, and don’t forget your wireless earbuds so you don’t have to deal with tangled wires mid-flight. Or, bring a book to keep yourself entertained.
Pack a travel pillow
If you end up choosing ScootPlus, which doesn’t come with a fully reclinable seat, a travel pillow can make a world of difference. A good one helps support your neck and prevents that awkward mid-flight head bob.
Bring a small toiletry kit
Most budget airlines’ business class won’t provide an amenity kit, or if they do, it’ll be available as an add-on for an extra charge. So, it’s a smart move to bring your own toiletry kit. Pack the essentials – like hand sanitiser, moisturiser, lip balm, and deodorant – to keep you feeling fresh during your flight.
Fill your tummy before boarding
If you’re flying with ZIPAIR, keep in mind that meals aren’t included in the business class experience – unless you decide to purchase them separately. Grab a hearty meal at the airport, so you’re set for the journey ahead – it’s always nice to start your flight feeling satisfied.
Enjoy business class without the premium price tag
Image credit: @twayair via Instagram
Budget airlines’ business class isn’t quite the same as flying full-service, but it’s a good deal if you’re looking to upgrade without spending a ton. You might miss out on some luxuries like in-flight entertainment or complimentary meals, but for a fraction of the price, you get extra comfort, priority boarding, and a little more space to stretch out. If you’re cool with the small trade-offs, it’s an easy way to level up your flight experience without draining your wallet.
More useful travel guides:
- Things you cannot bring back to SG from JB
- Common travel scams in Asia, Europe & USA
- What to do if you miss your flight
Cover image adapted from: @twayair via Instagram, T’way Air, Plaza Premium Lounge Kuala Lumpur (KUL) Arrivals KLIA2 via Google Maps
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