In a world where short-haul flying has become increasingly dominated by low-cost style service, Bangkok Airways still offer a differentiated experience. With bags and meals included, as well as a lounge for economy passengers, what’s it like flying with Asia’s ’boutique’ airline?

As we were visiting Thailand during the rainy season in September, we wanted to visit Koh Samui for a higher chance of sunny weather. Our only option was Bangkok Airways economy. This is because Bangkok Airways own and operate the only airport on the island. They have a complete monopoly over domestic flights. In fact, the only other airline to operate scheduled flights from Koh Samui is Scoot, who operate services to Singapore. As a result, fares from Bangkok to Koh Samui are much higher than to other destinations in Thailand such as Krabi or Phuket where there is considerable competition.

On the dates we wanted to fly, fares were being extortionate. The cheapest option was the 6:15am departure. On the plus side, you don’t need to worry about getting stuck in traffic on the way to Suvarnabhumi airport from the city. On the downside, it meant a 3:30am departure from our hotel. We probably could have left a bit later, but it was never going to be a fun start to the day, and I prefer to avoid a last-minute rush.

Airport Experience & Lounge

As we had a bag we wanted to dispatch, we headed to the check-in area. Check-in was, as you might expect considering the hour, rather empty. It’s worth noting that Bangkok Airways always allow a 20kg checked bag, regardless of ticket type.

I don’t find Suvarnabhumi the easiest airport to navigate, but the domestic area is quite straightforward. Although no one mentioned anything to us during check-in, Bangkok Airways have two lounges for their domestic flights. One for passengers in business class – and, rather uniquely, one for economy too.

We got to the lounge shortly after 4:30am. If you’re interested to know more about the experience, feel free to check out my review.

Bangkok Airways Economy In-flight Experience

Boarding began on time and our flight was departing from a remote stand. The process was well managed and Bangkok Airways boards by group number. It takes just over an hour to fly from Bangkok to Koh Samui and our flight was operated by an a319.

This was my first time flying with Bangkok Airways in about eight or nine years. I remember they used to have a slightly garish safety video, but this has now been replaced with a more conventional safety demonstration.

Space was decent, and the seats were comfortable. As we didn’t check-in online beforehand, our seats were allocated during check-in. We got emergency-exit seats. The extra space was nice, but considering this is such a short flight, it didn’t make a huge amount of difference.

Bangkok Airways has created a good amount of differentiation between themselves and their low-cost competitors. Of course, this typically comes at an increased ticket price.

Considering the length of our flight, the meal provided was substantial. It included a warm breakfast, fruit, a muffin and an individual bottle of water. Tea and coffee was also provided.

The service was friendly and efficient. Considering how short the flight is, the fact they manage to serve a full meal service is impressive!

We landed on time after a short flight of 1hr and 5 minutes. Koh Samui, it has to be said, is a really unique airport – and we enjoyed our trip to the island.

Conclusions

Bangkok Airways economy was a good experience overall. Bangkok Airways have successfully created a clear differentiation between themselves and their low-cost competitors. Of course, on this particular route, they’re the only option.

For flights where there is competition though, for example Phuket, Bangkok Airways can be a great option. Depending on when you’re flying, they’re often only slightly more expensive than the likes of Air Asia. In the example below, for an additional $8 you’d receive a 20kg checked bag, lounge access and a meal onboard. Clearly in this case Bangkok Airways are by far the best option.

Of course, this isn’t always the case. and options will vary a lot depending on date and route, but depending on price, I’d definitely consider using Bangkok Airways again.