Jumpseating from the US to Bangkok and back

[d328pilot]

I was at PSA...01 - until Mar 07

 

[TNPILOT]

Having been to Thailand myself I would second the suggestion for buying ZED's to get there. Thai is a good bet as are NWA, UAL, etc. Jumpseating is going to be difficult, mostly because the gate agents probably will not understand what you are talking about. Furthermore, the airports in Asia (atleast the ones I've been to) are not set up well for nonreving. Generally you will have to wait outside of security next to the ticket counter before they will release stabdbys then you will be forced to make a mad dash through security and passport control. It's not much fun but it gets the job done. As far as buying tickets for domestic flying, any travel agency once you are over there will work. We used Thai and Bangkok Air. Frankly buying a ticket was not much more than a ZED fair and was MUCH less of a hassle. Thai operates a ton of widebodies on domestic routes but the volume of travellers within Thailand will blow your mind. Have fun it's a great place.

Also, if you live on the east coast don't rule out going through a European gateway to get there. Going through Tokyo or Hong Kong is preferable but if you go through Paris, Frankfurt, etc. the flying time is roughly the same. The connection time might be a bit longer but it works.

 

[AV8N4Fun]

Once in Thailand, I recommend Thai Air Asia for domestic travel. Price is low, service is great, & they have a good reputation. Most would warn you to stay clear of Orient Thai, for safety concerns. I've used virtually all of 'em & have never had any issues.
Ooh... something to think about. Unlike how we, as crew, can travel through airports in the states & EU countries in uniform & be able to take things through security that passengers are not able to do(like liquids & gels), the Thai security at both BKK & Doung Mung(sp?) airports don't recognize that exception. Unless you are just lucky.
I do the trip roughly every other month. Unfortunately, usually at my own $$s. If you learn any sure-fire way, then do please pass it on.
Good luck. Have fun with it.

 

[A19]

Just went to Krabi, it might be easier to jumpseat to NRT then buy a zed fare to Phuket on Thai, they fly direct NRT-Phuket. Once in Phuket take the ferry over to Krabi. I suggest spending a day or two in the Pi Pi islands. They are where you switch ferrys from Phuket to Krabi