Singapore Airlines launches budget challenger

Singapore Airlines has this week announced the launch of Scoot, a no-frills operator which will fly on medium to long-haul routes out of Singapore.

The operation will start mid next year with a fleet of four B777-200 aircraft purchased from SIA, and will be managed and run independently from the parent.

Singapore says that, "Adhering to the low-frills spirit that has proven so popular in short haul arenas in Asia and around the world, Scoot will offer great value airfares up to 40% less than legacy carriers.

"Guests will be empowered to customize travel to suit their personal requirements, partaking of only those elements they want and not subsidizing the choices of others. Meals, preferred seats and baggage, amongst many other items, will all be available for selection.

Scoot, which will operate from Changi Airport Terminal 2, will offer two cabins, but seating, cabin features and other aspects of the product are still being considered.

"Our first-year destinations will include Australasia, China and others – some routes being completely new, others new to no-frills airline operations. The specific cities will be progressively announced over the coming months as negotiations with airports and tourism bodies progress. Flights will open for booking in the early part of 2012.

“The team building Scoot is passionate about this new airline, what it stands for and how it can change the way people travel long distance,” said CEO Campbell Wilson.

“We’re equally passionate about incorporating Scootitude into all that we do. It promises to be a fun and exciting ride”.

Asia is rapidly becoming the globe's airline bearpit. The survivors will indeed be winners.