A Singaporean content creator is turning heads online after sharing what he calls a simple way to save on airfare — by flying out of Johor Bahru instead of Singapore.
In a TikTok video posted on 16 April, Wilfred Lee (@wilfredleekc) documented his journey from Johor Bahru to Kunming, China, highlighting both the affordability and convenience of the experience.
“Did you know there’s actually an international airport here?”
Starting his video in Johor Bahru, Lee introduces what some travellers may not realise — the presence of Senai International Airport, a regional airport offering international routes at competitive prices.
“I’m currently in JB and did you know there’s actually an international airport here where you can get cheaper flights to places like China which is where I’m going,” he says.
Lee adds in his caption: “Raise your hands if you didn’t know there’s an international airport in JB 🙋♂️ Well now you know!”
Budget Airline, Budget Fares and Smooth Check-In
For his trip, Lee booked a flight with AirAsia, which he described as “affordable, convenient and comfortable.”
“I’ll be flying to Kunming with AirAsia because they have really affordable flights that are convenient and comfortable,” he says in the clip.
According to Lee, the ticket cost less than what he would typically pay flying out of Singapore — though he did not disclose the exact fare. The TikTok video walks viewers through the check-in process, showing both automated kiosks and manual counters at the airport.
“There’s automatic check-in over here but I’m going to the manual counter,” Lee says. “Alright and done. That was so simple.”
He also notes that his ticket included 20kg of luggage, which he found more than sufficient.
From JB to Kunming
Lee boards the flight just in time, joking about nearly being the last passenger onboard.
“I hope I get an aisle seat because that’s my favourite… It’s not an aisle seat but it’s okay, I’ll make do,” he says.
During the flight, he is served nasi lemak, which he reviews positively: “Wow that’s delicious.”
The video ends with his arrival in Kunming, where he reiterates his recommendation.
Encouraging others to try the same route, Lee says travellers can access multiple international destinations from Johor Bahru at lower prices.
“Guys if you haven’t already I highly recommend flying with AirAsia from JB airport. And not only can you fly to China you can also fly to many other countries at a cheaper price,” he says.
“If you love saving money, I totally recommend trying it out for yourself… Don’t say I bojio ah.”
A growing travel workaround?
For Singapore-based travellers, flying from nearby Johor Bahru has long been seen as a potential cost-saving alternative — especially for budget airlines operating out of Malaysia.
However, factors such as border crossing time, transport costs, and scheduling still play a role in whether the savings are worthwhile.
Still, Lee’s video has sparked fresh interest in the option — particularly among younger travellers looking to stretch their travel budgets further.
Wtach the video here:
@wilfredleekc Raise your hands if you didn’t know there’s an international airport in JB 🙋♂️ Well now you know! I booked a flight with AirAsia to China and it turned out to be cheaper than usual too 😃 If you love saving money, I totally recommend trying it out for yourself! You best bet I’m gonna be flying with AirAsia from JB a lot more often 😛 @Fly AirAsia #flyairasia #airasiatravelersquad #kunmingwithairasia
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