Oasis plots low-cost long-haul launch

Led by none other than Reverend Raymond C Lee and Priscilla C Lee, Oasis Hong Kong Airlines is creeping forward to its goal of launching low-cost long-haul services between Hong Kong and London.

The two Lees - chairman and executive director of the start-up respectively - are hoping to begin flying five times a week between Hong Kong and London Gatwick from October. The carrier is due to receive its first aircraft - two Boeing 747-400s formerly operated by Singapore Airlines - this month.

Despite some delays to its launch, Oasis is feeling confident. So confident in fact that it has started winding up UK press coverage. "Oasis Hong Kong Airlines is set to transform the long-haul travel industry by mixing low-fares with personalised options and high-quality service," it says. These are lofty goals indeed.

Oasis says its 747s will have 81 business class seats and 278 economy seats. The personalisation comes from allowing travellers to book the basic seat and then pay for extras such as advance seat reservations, lounge passes or better in-flight grub. "Passengers only pay for what they choose," it says.

Airline Business covered Oasis and other planning low-cost long-haul services recently. Many, however, have doubts whether it is a business model that can really work in competitive long-haul markets where the natural benefits low-cost players have in short-haul travel give them the edge.

Oasis and the Lees are determined to give it a go. Further routes will be announced soon, they say. We will watch their progress with interest.