September 23, 2025 — 5:00am
Flying long-haul on a budget airline often means sacrificing comfort for cost savings. This was the case for a recent traveler who managed to save $700 on a flight from Kuala Lumpur to Melbourne with AirAsia X, despite the lack of in-flight entertainment and cramped seating.
The flight, numbered D7202, operates six times weekly and increases to 14 times weekly during December, using an Airbus A330-300. The journey is part of a broader itinerary from Melbourne to Cairo, designed to avoid the exorbitant school holiday airfares. By opting for AirAsia for the Melbourne-Kuala Lumpur leg, the traveler saved over $2000 on the family’s overall flight expenses.
Checking In and Baggage Allowance
Check-in was a breeze with self-service kiosks at the airport, allowing passengers to scan their boarding passes and print bag tags. The economy class ticket permits up to 20 kilograms of checked luggage and seven kilograms of cabin luggage, plus a personal item. Although the hand luggage was slightly over the limit, the traveler was allowed through without issue.
Loyalty and Seating
AirAsia offers a loyalty scheme, AirAsia rewards, which is free to join and allows point conversion from various bank and loyalty cards. The economy cabin features a 3-3-3 seating configuration, and for an additional $25 per seat, travelers can ensure they sit together. The seats are notably narrow at 16.5 inches wide, with a pitch of 30 inches, posing a challenge for those with broader shoulders.
In-Flight Experience
For those accustomed to in-flight entertainment, AirAsia’s lack of screens and Wi-Fi may be a drawback. Passengers are advised to download movies and charge devices beforehand, as there is no in-seat power. However, the in-flight magazine offers a surprisingly engaging read.
Service and Food
Despite the minimalistic approach, the cabin crew’s cheerful demeanor enhances the travel experience. They maintain a clean cabin and assist passengers with stowing luggage. While meals are not included in the fare, they can be pre-ordered online. The traveler enjoyed a nasi lemak from the terminal, complemented by snacks from the inflight menu.
Sustainability and Future Plans
AirAsia is committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2050, investing in a younger, more fuel-efficient fleet and sustainable practices such as compostable packaging. The airline has been recognized as Skytrax World’s Best Low-Cost Airline for 16 consecutive years and will soon expand its routes to include flights from Kuala Lumpur to Tashkent starting October 15, 2025.
Cost and Verdict
With fares starting at approximately $650 for a return trip from Melbourne to Kuala Lumpur, AirAsia offers a cost-effective option for budget-conscious travelers. While the lack of amenities requires some preparation, the significant savings can make it worthwhile for those willing to forego luxury.
“You get what you pay for with AirAsia: there are no screens, no blankets and no power on this flight, so you have to be prepared – charge devices and download your entertainment beforehand, bring layers and snacks.”
The writer flew at her own expense. For more information about air travel and sustainability, visit IATA.org. Note that fares are subject to change and are based on availability three months from the time of publication.
