Aviation A2Z, a renowned aviation website, has recently released a list of the top 10 airlines in Southeast Asia with the largest one-way seat capacity for 2025. Leading the pack is Malaysia’s AirAsia, closely followed by Lion Air and Cebu Pacific Air.
Two Vietnamese carriers, Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet, secured the fourth and fifth spots, respectively. This ranking places them above the national carriers of Singapore, the Philippines, and Malaysia in terms of seat capacity.
Here is the detailed breakdown of the top 10 airlines:
1. Air Asia (AK) – 2,912,458 seats
AirAsia is the largest low-cost carrier in the region, boasting a 7% market share. With its affordable pricing model, AirAsia has revolutionized air travel in Southeast Asia, making it accessible to millions. Their extensive network connects major cities and smaller destinations across the region, focusing on affordability and efficiency.
AirAsia’s vast fleet of Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft enables them to maintain a high-frequency flight schedule, catering to both leisure and business travelers.
AirAsia leads the region with its seat capacity and 7% market share.
2. Lion Air (JT) – 2,833,937 seats
Closely following AirAsia is Lion Air, also holding a 7% market share with 2.8 million seats as of January. Headquartered in Indonesia, Lion Air is a prominent player in the region’s aviation industry. While they primarily serve domestic routes within Indonesia, the world’s largest archipelago, they have also expanded their presence internationally.
Lion Air’s low-cost model and aggressive fleet expansion have solidified their dominant position, especially in the Indonesian market.
3. Cebu Pacific Air (5J) – 2,445,185 seats
Ranking third is Cebu Pacific Air from the Philippines, offering over 2.4 million seats in January 2025. Known for their affordable fares and creative marketing campaigns, Cebu Pacific has become a household name in the Philippines.
Cebu Pacific Air operates an extensive network of domestic and international routes, connecting the Philippines to major hubs across Asia and the Middle East. Their fleet of Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft supports this wide-reaching network.
Vietnam Airlines is a full-service carrier and the national airline of Vietnam.
4. Vietnam Airlines (VN) – 2,442,974 seats
Vietnam Airlines, the national carrier of Vietnam, offers a full-service experience and provided over 2.4 million seats in January 2025. Renowned for their high-quality service and modern fleet, including Boeing 787 Dreamliners and Airbus A350, Vietnam Airlines caters to both domestic and international markets.
The airline continues to play a pivotal role in connecting Vietnam to global destinations while supporting the country’s burgeoning tourism industry.
5. Vietjet (VJ) – 2,184,512 seats
Vietjet, Vietnam’s leading low-cost carrier, comes in at fifth place with over 2.1 million seats. The airline has gained popularity due to its affordable fares and extensive domestic network.
Vietjet also operates international routes to countries like Thailand, South Korea, and Japan. Their youthful brand image and dynamic marketing strategies have propelled them to become one of the fastest-growing airlines in the region.
Vietjet is one of the fastest-growing airlines in the region.
6. Thai AirAsia (FD) – 1,983,860 seats
Thai AirAsia, a subsidiary of the AirAsia Group, is a leading low-cost carrier in Thailand. With nearly 2 million seats, they serve numerous domestic and international destinations. Their low-cost model and efficient operations have made them a favorite among travelers seeking budget-friendly options.
7. Singapore Airlines (SQ) – 1,792,511 seats
Singapore Airlines stands out as the premium carrier with the largest seat capacity in the region, offering over 1.7 million seats. Renowned for their world-class service, Singapore Airlines consistently ranks among the best airlines globally.
Based at Changi Airport, they operate an extensive international network, connecting Southeast Asia to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. Their modern fleet, including Airbus A350 and Boeing 787, underscores their commitment to comfort and efficiency.
Singapore Airlines excels as a premium carrier with its large seat capacity.
8. Philippine Airlines (PR) – 1,549,524 seats
Philippine Airlines (PAL), the national carrier of the Philippines, serves a significant portion of international travelers to and from the country. With over 1.5 million seats, PAL operates both domestic and international flights.
Known for their full-service offering, the airline serves destinations across Asia, North America, and the Middle East, utilizing a mix of narrow-body and wide-body aircraft.
9. Super Air Jet (IU) – 1,528,380 seats
Super Air Jet is a relatively new entrant to the Southeast Asian aviation market but has already made a significant impact. Headquartered in Indonesia, the airline targets the low-cost segment, appealing to millennials and Gen Z travelers with its tech-savvy approach and affordable fares.
Despite its young age, the airline’s impressive seat capacity reflects its rapid growth and strong market demand.
10. Malaysia Airlines (MH) – 1,440,792 seats
Rounding out the list is Malaysia Airlines, with over 1.4 million seats offered in January 2025. The national carrier of Malaysia operates an extensive network of domestic and international routes.
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