In Malaysia, the counter check-in fee has been set at RM 20 for domestic flights while passengers on international flights need to fork out RM 30. The airline has also listed down the fee in other currencies over at its official website. The flat rate check-in fee applies to all customers regardless of their age with the exception for infants of up to 24 months who do not occupy a seat by themselves. The fee will also be waived for passengers that meet the conditions below:
Reduced mobilityTravelling with an infant (under 24 months of age)Young guests travelling alone (YPTA)Affected by schedule changes and flight cancellations No airport check-in kiosks are available or all check-in kiosks are unserviceableUnable to complete web, mobile or kiosk check-in due to a system errorPurchased a seat upgrade or other additional paid services at the check-in counter.BIG Platinum and BIG Black MembersPremium Flex and Flatbed guestsRed Carpet guestsOn travel warrant and government bookingsSky Marshals on duty
As you might have expected, the recent COVID-19 outbreak is the reason behind the implementation of this new check-in fee. AirAsia stated that it wants to encourage customers to utilise contactless digital check-in methods which can help minimise physical contact between them and the airline’s staff.
Interesting enough, the check-in fee can be paid by passengers even before they come to the airport if they somehow really want to use the check-in counter. That being said, AirAsia might want to inform their customers much earlier about this additional fee though instead of announcing it right on the day of its implementation.
