Flying Far for Less: How LCCs are Changing the Long-Haul Market

The Low-Cost Carriers (LCCs) business model has been a transformative force in the aviation industry, and airlines are not unfamiliar with the numbers it brings. And in regions where the aviation landscape is already well-established, LCCs have successfully amassed a new customer base and expanded their market. While the business model seems relatively foolproof, the fierce competition between LCCs has left passengers prioritising two factors: service and ticket fares.? ?

Domestic flights are the ideal market where LCCs can flourish, given the short flying time where passengers might scarcely notice the added rows of seats, lesser legroom, and lack of free beverage service.?

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But what if you were travelling overseas and across continents? Recent Instagram and TikTok trends romanticise the travel experience and list unbelievable prices in their caption as clickbait for those who need a change of scenery. Colour-graded images, edited-out crowds and fares that sound too good to be true are all part of the travel influencer package. But they're available. You could easily book a flight from New York to Paris for $200 as long as you are willing to skip "premium" services such as free checked luggage allowance, snacks and meals, and entertainment.?

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Long-haul carriers operating on transatlantic, transpacific, Southeast Asian, and Australian routes often face balancing affordability with passenger expectations. While LCCs have already demonstrated the feasibility of adding extra rows of seats, reducing meal options, and eliminating seatback entertainment, these changes might not be readily accepted on long-haul flights, where passengers demand a more comfortable and engaging travel experience.?

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Access to power sockets and meals (including those on 12-hour flights) are already chargeable in some LCCs. Business class, too, is not spared from these changes, with passengers no longer entitled to seatback screens for entertainment despite the higher fare.??

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If these still sound manageable, here are a few things you might want to consider for a hassle-free experience on your next long-haul flight.??

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Onward connections:?Learn more about how your onward connections are protected and if the airline will rebook you on the next available flight with its partner airlines or leave you stranded at the transit lounge in case of a delay.?

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Seat selection and in-flight meal restrictions:?With airlines adding extra seats where they can, having the freedom to select the front row or aisle is something you would be grateful for after takeoff. Ensure you also go through any meal restrictions, where only pre-booked meals are available, and passengers cannot bring their own.??

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Check for in-flight service packages:?Some airlines offer packages that offer specific services at a lower fee, such as seat selection, baggage allowance, and meals/snacks. Consider opting for them to avoid paying extra baggage fees in crowded queues at the airport.?? ?

Ultimately, navigating the LCC landscape on long-haul flights is a mind game of balancing expectations and acknowledging how little you paid to cross the ocean. While the LCC model may not always offer the same level of pampering as traditional airlines, the appeal of affordable fares remains undeniable to travellers worldwide.?