From EASY jet to Air Asia

Years ago, no frill airlines were unheard of. I first came across such a thing in 2000 when I took my family to England and Switzerland. The flight from Malaysia to England was normal enough but from England to Switzerland, we took EASY jet, the no frill airline. I had to make the booking (through the internet) a few months ahead to ensure I get the cheapest price and once booked, there's no such thing as changing the date/time. On confirmation of booking, I was given a number to present when checking in.
The flight itself was very early, 7.30 am, if I remember correctly and the airport was not Heathrow but Stanstead. We had to leave the hotel at 4 am in order to reach the airport before 6 am. On the plane, it was free seating. No free refreshment as well. If you want, you have to buy.
The flight itself was pleasant and we reached Switzerland in about an hour.
When Air Asia came into being, I can't help but remember my experience with EASY jet.