I don't mind aether current cuz it encourages exploration. It may be tedious if you play more than one character, though.

My suggestion is keeping the same system, but adding Riding Map 1-2 star as a reward for collecting 5-10 Aether Currents.

-This will make Riding Maps something more helpful before you unlock flying than just an afterthought currency spending.
-It will also make travelling for questing faster for people who spend time exploring the map.
-Why dividing it into two-part rewards? Because some regions may have two different areas that are locked until you access them via MSQ or hitch a ride. This way, you will benefit from the speed boost even if you only access half of the region when you first come across of it.