All about low-cost carriers: how to buy a cheap ticket and not overpay
Who wouldn't want to save on a flight? For those accustomed to budget travel, there are companies that offer inexpensive tickets. Today, we're talking about what a low-cost carrier is, why their prices are so low, and how to buy tickets on Kupi.com without overpaying.
Low-cost carriers — what are they
A low-cost carrier (from English 'low-cost') is an airline that offers cheap tickets. However, the company saves on standard services, such as baggage transport or in-flight meals. These services usually require an additional payment.
Features of low-cost carriers
To buy a cheap flight ticket on Kupi.com and be satisfied, you first need to understand how a low-cost carrier offers such prices and whether you are ready to put up with flight restrictions. Let's talk about why the price is so low.
Aircraft and fuel
Typically, the carrier maintains a fleet of new, young aircraft that break down less often and consume less fuel. However, there's a catch: the distance between seats inside can be very small. It's harder to stretch your legs, and you shouldn't expect high comfort. But if you actively support the saying 'the more the merrier' and your flight isn't too long, then low-cost tickets are one of the best options for you.
Airport fees
The closer an airport is to a city, the more expensive its services are. Consequently, it's more profitable for airlines to choose those further away. This means you'll save money, but you'll definitely incur additional expenses upon arrival. You'll also need to factor in travel time. At some airports, passengers have to walk from the boarding area to the terminal because the low-cost carrier saved on infrastructure usage. This can often be found on European flights. If this doesn't deter you, then go ahead and buy a ticket on Kupi.com and embark on your journey.
Number of employees
At a low-cost carrier, one employee serves a larger number of passengers than at a premium airline. The number of employees can also explain the expensive airport check-in: passengers now prefer to check in online to save time and money.
Daily revenue
The scheme is simple: the company just transports passengers from point A to point B, operating a large number of flights per day. No downtime: money is constantly in circulation.
And other expenses
Since the goal of a low-cost carrier is to sell as many tickets as possible, they need to do this through a larger number of partners and agents. All of this requires commission coverage. Therefore, the company often passes these costs on to passengers, charging additional fees for order processing, website usage, and so on.
What to pay attention to when buying a low-cost ticket
Place of purchase
You can purchase tickets on Kupi.com on the official airline websites or from agents who share partner tickets on their sites. Agents often offer additional services that are beneficial when purchasing.
Flight check-in
When choosing a low-cost ticket, as we mentioned above, it's better to check in online — check-in at the counter will be paid. The airline usually warns about this a few days before departure.
Baggage payment
If you know you might overdo it with souvenirs, it's better to purchase baggage allowance immediately (buying at the airport will cost significantly more).
Popular low-cost carriers in Russia
There aren't many low-cost carriers in Russia, but we're sure you know them:
- Pobeda. Probably the most popular carrier with cheap tickets and flights not only within Russia but also abroad;
- Smartavia. This airline offers the opportunity to buy affordable tickets to Sochi, Kazan, Yerevan, Moscow, and St. Petersburg;
- Azimuth. Although the airline is not considered a low-cost carrier in its classic sense, their ticket prices are pleasant. By the way, Azimuth even has its own mileage system with A-rubles, which can be spent on future travels.
Popular international low-cost carriers
When traveling in Europe, you can look for cheap tickets with airlines like Ryanair, Wizz Air, EasyJet. In Northern Europe, the most popular low-cost carrier is Norwegian Air, in the Baltics — Air Baltic, and in Turkey — Pegasus. Of course, this is not an exhaustive list: many airlines worldwide are ready to offer you tickets at the most attractive prices.
Let's summarize
A low-cost carrier is a suitable option for a flight if you have considered a few important nuances:
- baggage is not essential for you;
- you don't need to fly long distances between destinations;
- maximum comfort during the flight is not essential for you.
And now, a few tips for buying tickets:
- wait for sale periods: cheap tickets will become even cheaper, but you need to grab them as quickly as possible;
- take food into the cabin;
- pay for additional services in advance, as it will be more expensive at the airport;
- plan in advance how you will get from the airport to your destination if there is a long distance between them.
We wish you comfortable seats and cheap tickets!
