Low-cost airlines take a no-frills approach, which is how they are able to keep their fees relatively lower than traditional airlines. They save on luxuries, like reclining seats, which reduces initial plane purchase and maintenance costs. This translates into less expensive tickets.

People primarily prefer low-cost airlines (LCCs) like Ryanair, Southwest, or IndiGo because of the significant cost savings on base airfares, which can be 30% to 50% cheaper than traditional legacy carriers. This "unbundled" pricing model allows budget-conscious travelers to pay only for the seat, opting out of expensive extras like checked baggage, in-flight meals, or seat selection. In 2026, LCCs are also preferred for their point-to-point efficiency; they often fly direct routes between smaller, secondary airports that major airlines bypass, saving travelers the hassle and time of connecting through massive, congested hubs. Additionally, LCCs frequently maintain the youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets in the industry to keep maintenance costs low, which inadvertently appeals to environmentally conscious flyers. For short-haul trips where luxury is less of a priority than reaching a destination quickly and affordably, the trade-off of less legroom and fewer amenities is a logical financial decision for millions of tourists and students every year.