There are some really cool airlines out there.
Like totally. (that was painful to write)
But I’m not sure about this one:
Then again, that copyright year is curiously up-to-date, so let’s learn more about the so-called Really Cool Airlines.
Background
Last March, Mr. Patee Sarasin, the first and former CEO of Thai low-cost carrier Nok Air, first presented his new venture as an online game. The transition from game to being granted a Thai air operator’s license took a matter of months. Once Really Cool Airlines obtains an Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) from the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand, then its pair of dry-leased Airbus A330-300s’ can finally take-off.
The Thai English-language publication The Nation reports that Sarasin wants for this new airline to combine budget and luxury travel. In other words, the Ritz cracker of the aviation industry?
Routes
Sarasin’s short-term goal is for his airline to follow the point-to-point method. In this case, that’s concentrating solely on filling up international flights, while handing off passengers continuing on domestic routes to partner carriers. With an expected base at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi, Japanese destinations are the first choice, followed by Hong Kong, Singapore, and China.
I’m wondering if these plans might be slightly amended due to the recent announcement of reciprocal tourism visa waivers between China and Thailand. Egad.
Extras
Digging around Really Cool Airlines’ linktr.ee, the first thing that struck me was the presence of a rewards program. Ostensibly, since the airline isn’t yet flying, there’s now just a waitlist to join Really Cool Us. After watching the YouTube video about it, it appears that there will be a marketplace where one can redeem points for Utilities such as hotel stays or events. At the same time, it looks like users will be able to sell or trade Utilities.
(if I could snap up one of those Orient Thai 744 fuselages for a couple of points, that would be boss.)
Conclusion
As long as they get an air operator’s certificate, you can expect to hear more about Really Cool Airlines’ flights starting this spring.
Wow, I never knew there was an airline that only offers travel and no work! That’s amazing, especially for digital nomads like me who want to explore the world without the burden of a 9-to-5 job. I’ll definitely look into Really Cool Airlines for my next adventure. Thanks for sharing!