It’s one airline with a truly unique name. Thailand’s Really Cool Airlines is setting new trends by adopting a hybrid model that bridges the gap between a full-service airline and a low-cost airline. It’s a fresh and new approach, blending luxury with affordability, offering travelers the best of both worlds. The Thai startup carrier aims to kickstart commercial operations in December 2023, according to a report by The Star. However, before it takes to the skies, there’s still much to be done and more to learn about this upcoming airline.
What is the Hybrid Model?
In aviation, the term “hybrid model” often refers to an airline that functions somewhere between a low-cost carrier and a full-service carrier. Really Cool Airlines is embracing this approach, proudly sporting the slogan ‘We Fly the Future.’
The hybrid model means that passengers will experience the luxury of a full-service airline without paying hefty fares. An example of this model would be AirAsia X, where their A330s have lie-flat business class seats but lack inflight entertainment systems. With this venture, Really Cool Airlines plans to offer fares akin to low-cost carriers while maintaining the safety standards, customer service, and product quality of a full-service airline.
Yet, it remains to be seen what exactly Really Cool Airlines will provide in terms of inflight services, such as business class seats, free meals, or inflight entertainment.
Preparations for Takeoff
Though Really Cool Airlines is yet to begin operations, it’s making steady progress. The airline has secured an air operating license (AOL), but before commencing commercial service, it needs an air operator’s certificate (AOC) from the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT).
The carrier plans to launch long-haul flights with three leased Airbus A330 widebody aircraft. Guiding the new airline is Patee Sarasin, the former head of Thai low-cost carrier Nok Air. He’s pledging that Really Cool Airlines will set new standards and take the hybrid concept to new heights.
Destinations and Competition
Really Cool Airlines intends to fly regional and various international routes from Bangkok, targeting popular destinations in Asia, Australia, and Europe. Though the exact routes remain undisclosed, the airline’s strategic positioning offers a fresh alternative for travelers seeking comfort without breaking the bank.
Thailand’s aviation industry already hosts several major airlines, such as Thai Airways, Thai Smile, Nok Air, Bangkok Airways, Thai AirAsia, Thai Lion Air, and Thai Vietjet Air. How Really Cool Airlines will fare among these competitors and working as a hybrid remains to be seen.
This upcoming airline promises an exciting future for travelers looking for full service at a fraction of the cost. Time will reveal how Really Cool Airlines will soar and what new heights it will reach.
First love never dies. I fell in love with airplanes and aviation when I was a kid. My dream was to become a pilot, but destiny led me to another path: to be an aviation digital media content creator and a small business owner. My passion for aviation inspires me to bring you quality content through my website and social accounts. Aviation is indeed in my blood and blog!
