AirAsia is introducing a new fee for customers checking in at the airport counter.
In a move to encourage customers to reduce face to face contact with staff during the Covid-19 pandemic, the airline will impose a $4.85 fee for domestic flights.
For international flights the charge is $7.25.
Customers can avoid it by checking in via the website, mobile app or automated check-in kiosk at the airport.
"In view of the Covid-19 pandemic, these self-check-in facilities have become very crucial in minimising physical contact between our guests and staff," said AirAsia Group Chief Operations Officer Javed Malik.
The fee is applicable for check-ins at airports in Malaysia, Vietnam, Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Taiwan and Honolulu.
There are exceptions for Premium Flex or Premium Flatbed guests, and guests with reduced mobility.
It is not the first airline to impose such fees.
Ryanair charges a hefty $65 for physical airport check-in while US carrier Spirit Airlines charges $10.
AirAsia last month reported the biggest quarterly loss in its history with revenue down a massive 96%.
Written by Ray Montgomery
