For most, commuting to work means navigating traffic or crammed trains, but for Racheal Kaur, an Indian-origin mother in Malaysia, it involves flying five days a week.

Kaur, an assistant manager in AirAsia’s finance operations department, wakes up at 4 am to catch a 5:55 am flight from Penang to Sepang, ensuring she can balance her career while spending time with her children every night.

“With them growing up, I feel the need to be around more often,” she told CNA Insider.

Previously, Kaur rented a home in Kuala Lumpur and only visited her family on weekends. However, with her children now 11 and 12, she opted for a daily aerial commute to be more present in their lives.

“I can help them with last-minute homework. You know how kids are—there’s always something that pops up,” she added.

Surprisingly, her unconventional commute is more cost-effective than renting in Kuala Lumpur. While her rent previously ranged between RM1,400 and RM1,500 (Rs 24,500 – Rs 26,250) per month, her AirAsia staff discount allows her to fly for RM50 per trip, totaling RM1,100 (Rs 19,250) monthly. Even her food expenses have reduced from RM600 (Rs 10,500) to RM300 (Rs 5,250), saving her an additional RM700 (Rs 12,250).

Her flights, covering approximately 400 km in 30 to 40 minutes, ensure she reaches the office by 7:45 am and returns home to Penang by 7:30 pm. However, travel during festive seasons can be challenging, as standby travelers like her sometimes struggle to secure a seat. “It gets a little nerve-wracking, but I always manage to get home in the end,” she explained.

Earlier, a mother-son duo working at AT&T gained attention for their unique work-life balance. Despite working in different departments—one in events and the other in accounting—they made it a point to meet for lunch and spend time together outside of work.