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26 Facts About Tigerair

Marina Prosser

Written by Marina Prosser

Published: 27 Apr 2025

Expert Verified Editorial Guidelines
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Source: 9news.com.au

Tigerair is a name that rings a bell for many travelers, but how much do you really know about this airline? Tigerair is a low-cost carrier that has made waves in the aviation industry with its budget-friendly fares and efficient service. Founded in 2003, this airline has grown rapidly, offering flights to numerous destinations across Asia and Australia. But there's more to Tigerair than just cheap tickets. Did you know that it was originally a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines? Or that it merged with Scoot in 2017? Buckle up as we dive into 26 fascinating facts about Tigerair that will make you appreciate this airline even more.

Table of Contents
01History of Tigerair
02Fleet and Operations
03Destinations and Routes
04Customer Experience
05Challenges and Changes
06Final Thoughts on Tigerair

History of Tigerair

Tigerair, a low-cost airline, has an interesting history filled with notable milestones and achievements. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this airline.

  1. Founded in 2003: Tigerair was established in December 2003 as a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, aiming to provide affordable air travel.

  2. First Flight in 2004: The airline's inaugural flight took off on September 15, 2004, from Singapore to Bangkok.

  3. Expansion to Australia: In 2007, Tigerair expanded its operations to Australia, creating Tiger Airways Australia.

  4. Rebranding: In 2013, the airline underwent a rebranding, changing its name from Tiger Airways to Tigerair.

  5. Acquisition by Virgin Australia: Virgin Australia acquired a 60% stake in Tigerair Australia in 2013, later taking full ownership in 2014.

Fleet and Operations

Tigerair's fleet and operational strategies have played a significant role in its success. Here are some key facts about their fleet and operations.

  1. All-Airbus Fleet: Tigerair's fleet primarily consisted of Airbus A320 aircraft, known for their efficiency and reliability.

  2. Fleet Size: At its peak, Tigerair operated a fleet of over 20 aircraft, serving various destinations across Asia and Australia.

  3. Focus on Short-Haul Flights: The airline specialized in short-haul flights, offering affordable travel options within a 4-5 hour flight range.

  4. Hub in Singapore: Changi Airport in Singapore served as the main hub for Tigerair, facilitating connections to numerous destinations.

  5. Innovative Booking System: Tigerair introduced an innovative online booking system, making it easier for passengers to book and manage their flights.

Destinations and Routes

Tigerair's network of destinations and routes was extensive, covering many popular locations. Here are some interesting facts about their routes.

  1. Over 50 Destinations: At its height, Tigerair flew to more than 50 destinations across Asia and Australia.

  2. Popular Routes: Some of the most popular routes included flights from Singapore to Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Jakarta.

  3. Seasonal Flights: The airline offered seasonal flights to cater to peak travel periods, such as holidays and festivals.

  4. Codeshare Agreements: Tigerair had codeshare agreements with several airlines, expanding its reach and offering more options to passengers.

  5. Focus on Secondary Airports: To keep costs low, Tigerair often operated from secondary airports, which typically had lower landing fees.

Customer Experience

Tigerair aimed to provide a pleasant travel experience despite being a low-cost carrier. Here are some facts about their customer service and amenities.

  1. No-Frills Service: As a budget airline, Tigerair offered a no-frills service, with passengers paying extra for additional amenities.

  2. In-Flight Meals: Passengers could purchase a variety of in-flight meals and snacks, catering to different tastes and preferences.

  3. On-Time Performance: The airline prided itself on its punctuality, often achieving high on-time performance rates.

  4. Frequent Flyer Program: Tigerair had a frequent flyer program called Stripes, allowing passengers to earn points and enjoy various benefits.

  5. Customer Support: The airline provided multiple channels for customer support, including a dedicated call center and online chat.

Challenges and Changes

Like any airline, Tigerair faced its share of challenges and changes throughout its history. Here are some notable facts about these aspects.

  1. Financial Struggles: Despite its initial success, Tigerair faced financial difficulties, leading to restructuring and cost-cutting measures.

  2. Safety Incidents: The airline experienced a few safety incidents, but none resulted in fatalities, and it maintained a strong safety record overall.

  3. Merger with Scoot: In 2017, Tigerair merged with Scoot, another low-cost carrier owned by Singapore Airlines, to streamline operations and reduce costs.

  4. COVID-19 Impact: The COVID-19 pandemic severely affected the airline industry, leading to reduced operations and financial strain for Tigerair.

  5. Ceasing Operations in Australia: In 2020, Tigerair Australia ceased operations due to the impact of the pandemic and ongoing financial challenges.

  6. Legacy: Despite its challenges, Tigerair left a lasting legacy in the low-cost airline industry, demonstrating the potential for affordable air travel.

Final Thoughts on Tigerair

Tigerair's journey from its inception to its current status is a tale of resilience and adaptation. This airline has carved out a niche in the competitive aviation industry by offering budget-friendly travel options without compromising on safety or service. From its humble beginnings in Singapore to its expansion into Australia, Tigerair has continually evolved to meet the needs of its passengers. The airline's focus on efficiency, customer satisfaction, and affordability has made it a popular choice for travelers looking for value. Whether you're planning a short getaway or a longer trip, Tigerair provides a reliable and cost-effective option. As the aviation industry continues to change, Tigerair's commitment to innovation and customer care ensures it will remain a significant player. So next time you're booking a flight, consider Tigerair for a blend of affordability and quality. Safe travels!

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