The launch of the first ASEAN Air Pass seems a natural extension, since the group, which was founded a dozen years ago in Malaysia, has since set up subsidiaries in Indonesia, the Philippines and Thailand, and continues to keep a close eye on other countries such as Myanmar (Burma). In mid-February, the carrier officially launched its ASEAN Air Pass, which allows passengers to purchase 10 or 20 credit points valid on 140 of the group's routes in ASEAN for as little as $160. The principle is simple. One credit point is charged for each flight of less than two hours, and three credit points for each flight of more than two hours. For example, a Bangkok-Singapore-Bandung-Bali-Bangkok flight will cost exactly 10 credit points. There are a few restrictions, however: flights must be booked at least 14 days in advance, as taxes and other supplements are not included in the price. The pass also has a limited duration: 30 days for the 10 credit point ASEAN Air Pass and 60 days for the 20 credit point ASEAN Air Pass. It also requires membership of the airline's BIG frequent flyer programme, which is free to join.
