We aim to deepen our presence in India and West Asia: Scoot GM Brian Torrey

Scoot, the low-cost subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, is bullish on the India and West Asia markets. The airline, recently named the 'value airline of the year', aims to expand its presence in both regions by offering affordable, convenient, and memorable travel experiences.

In an interview with Bizz Buzz, Brian Torrey, General Manager (India and West Asia) at Scoot, highlighted the company's commitment to the Indian market, emphasising the growing preference for unique travel destinations among Indian travelers. Scoot aims to cater to diverse segments, including families, young professionals, and those visiting friends and relatives.

The airline also sees significant potential in the West Asia market, characterized by its strategic location and diverse passenger base. Scoot plans to capitalize on this opportunity by offering competitive pricing and excellent service

What is Scoot's vision for India and West Asia?

Scoot‘s vision for India and West Asia is both short term and long term. In the short term, we are enhancing services to cater to the needs and preferences of travellers in these regions. In the long term, we aim to deepen our presence and accessibility across India and West Asia, tapping into new markets with Scoot‘s business model. Resuming operations in Chennai was a significant milestone for us, and we look forward to further strengthening our network in the country.

How important is the Indian market to Scoot?

The Indian market holds great importance for Scoot. There is a notable trend among Indian travellers to explore new and unique destinations beyond the conventional tourist destinations like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Bangkok. Destinations such as Bali, Manila, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Penang, Krabi, and Phuket are also popular among Indian travellers due to their affordability, scenic beauty, diverse local cuisines, and resort experiences. We are committed to engaging with various segments of Indian travellers, including VFR (Visiting Friends and Relatives) travellers, the under-35 working population, young couples, and families seeking new travel experiences. By providing affordable and memorable travel experiences, Scoot aims to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of Indian travellers. We are dedicated to serving the needs of Indian travellers and getting them closer to achieving their travel dreams.

How does Scoot view the market in West Asia?

The West Asian market represents an intriguing prospect for Scoot, characterised by its strategic positioning and extensive air links. Serving as a pivotal hub for global travel, West Asia attracts a diverse range of passengers, including both corporate and leisure travellers. Scoot's strategy in this market revolves around capitalising on these factors by offering competitive pricing, streamlined connections, and quality customer service. By doing so, Scoot aims to cater effectively to the varied requirements of travellers journeying to and from West Asia.

How does Scoot and its products stand out in the marketplace?

As a low-cost carrier, we remain steadfast in our commitment to quality. With an extensive network spanning over 69 destinations, Scoot offers a variety of options, including the premium economy option, ScootPlus, for those seeking greater comfort during their flight as well as Scoot-in-Silence, a dedicated quiet cabin for those who seek to have a more restful and comfortable flight. Scoot also offers a generous 10kg cabin baggage allowance which enhances one‘s convenience. This is an extra 3kg compared to what most other low-cost carrier’ offer! Looking ahead, our strategy focuses on network connectivity, fleet expansion, differentiated services, operational excellence, and investing in our people. We continually strive to enhance the overall customer journey through digital innovations, further distinguishing our products in the competitive marketplace.

What are Scoot's environmentally friendly plans?

Scoot is committed to sustainability as part of the broader Singapore Airlines Group's environmental, social, and governance initiatives. The group's target is to replace 5 percent of total fuel requirements with sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) by 2030. Scoot and SIA have collectively announced their commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. This includes deploying multiple strategies, including investments in new-generation aircraft such as the Boeing 777-9, Airbus A350F freighters, and Embraer E190-E2 regional jets, which contribute to reducing carbon emissions. Additionally, Scoot actively engages in fuel efficiency measures and collaborates with government bodies and aviation partners to accelerate the development and adoption of SAF. The company also participates in carbon offsetting initiatives through schemes like the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s Carbon Offsetting and deduction Scheme for International Aviation.

What are the expectations of Scoot's customers?

Our customers expect us to provide affordable yet high-value travel experiences that prioritise choice, convenience, and reliability. They expect a diverse range of destinations to explore and to commute in comfortable, modern aircrafts. Our customers look to Scoot for transparent pricing and excellent customer service that cater to their evolving needs and preferences. Overall, they expect Scoot to deliver memorable travel experiences that exceed their expectations while remaining affordable.

With Singapore's renowned airport as your hub, what is Scoot's position in the Asia-Pacific market?

With Singapore Changi Airport serving as our hub, we maintain a prominent position in the Asia Pacific market, offering a compelling value proposition that aligns with the expectations of our customers. Our extensive network of over ó9 destinations across 15 countries and territories is growing following the addition of the Embraer El 90-E2 regional jet in April 2024. Coupled with differentiated offerings such as ScootPlus and a generous 10kg cabin baggage allowance, these enable us to cater to the diverse travel needs and preferences of passengers in the region. Moreover, our commitment to affordability, choice, convenience, and reliability resonates strongly with customers seeking high-value travel experiences and quality. Therefore, we have established ourselves as a preferred choice for travellers across the Asia Pacific region, positioning us as a key player in the regional aviation market.

How does Scoot complement Singapore Airlines?

As the low-cost subsidiary of Singapore Airlines (SIA), Scoot serves as a valuable addition to SIA's wider business portfolio. Our extensive network of over 69 destinations, including destinations more suited for low-cost carrier operations, not only expands the reach of SIA but also contributes to growing the overall market share of the SIA Group. Scoot and SIA collectively serve over 120 destinations across 35 countries and territories, offering passengers a diverse range of travel options catering to different preferences and budgets. Additionally, since December 2017, Scoot and SIA entered into a new codeshare agreement which allows Scoot‘s customers to access all destinations served by SIA on single-ticket itineraries, and vice versa. This also allows members of KrisFlyer (KF), the rewards programme of the SIA Group, to earn 2.5 KF Elite tier miles for every mile earned on Scoot flights. KF Elite tier members can enjoy benefits that include priority boarding at selected airports, automatic assignment of the best available seat, an additional 5kg check-in baggage allowance and 25 percent more miles earned on Scoot flights. This synergy allows the SIA Group to capture and retain customers across various market segments, maintaining its position as a leading player in the global aviation industry.

What are Scoot's growth plans for the next three years?

Over the next three years, Scoot plans to maintain a path of growth and innovation, positioning itself as a dynamic and responsive player in the aviation industry. Taking advantage of our mix of different modern and efficient feet types, with over 50 aircraft comprising Boeing 787 Dreamliners and Airbus A320 family aircraft, as well as the Embraer E190-E2 regional jets, we aim to strengthen our connectivity, tap into new regional growth opportunities, and maintain a high standard of operational efficiency. Additionally, continuous investment in technology will improve our infrastructure, pricing and revenue management capabilities, and customer touchpoints, ensuring a seamless and convenient journey for our passengers. Strengthening our customer-centric approach, we will focus on capturing feedback through an enhanced survey ecosystem, an upgraded website, new mobile app features, and additional perks for members of the KrisFlyer loyalty program. Our commitment to our employees remains constant, with a focus on maintaining a skilled workforce and investing in their personal and professional development. With a renewed focus on safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction, Scoot is poised to thrive in the ever-evolving aviation landscape, meeting the growing demand for personalised, high-value travel experiences in the post-Covid era.