West Air, the renowned international airline from China, has inaugurated its first Indian outlet with the launch of a new Lhasa-Chongqing-Singapore route. This strategic addition marks the first international route since the renaming of Lhasa Gongga International Airport and aims to enhance cultural and economic exchanges between western China and Singapore.
Operating three round-trip flights weekly, the route is serviced by an Airbus A319. The outbound flight, PN6425, departs Lhasa every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 17:40, arriving in Chongqing at 20:30. After a brief layover, the flight departs Chongqing at 22:50 (23:00 on Mondays) and lands in Singapore at 03:55 the following day. The return flight, PN6426, operates on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, departing Singapore at 04:55, arriving in Chongqing at 09:40, departing Chongqing at 12:20, and reaching Lhasa at 15:20.
Lhasa, known as the “City of Sunshine,” is celebrated for its serene atmosphere, rich religious heritage, and iconic landmarks such as the Potala Palace, Tanggula Mountains, and Namtso Lake. This new route effectively creates a “two-way bridge” between the snowy plateau of western China and the tropical landscape of Singapore.
Chongqing, serving as the operational hub for the China-Singapore Strategic Connectivity Demonstration Project, plays a pivotal role in linking western China with the ASEAN region. The new air corridor is expected to facilitate significant economic, trade, cultural, and tourism exchanges among Lhasa, Chongqing, and Singapore, fostering deeper regional integration.
In the wake of the China-Singapore Mutual Visa Exemption Agreement effective from February 9, 2024, ordinary passport holders can now enjoy hassle-free travel between the two nations. Singapore remains a top destination for its vibrant culinary scene, multicultural experiences, and excellent infrastructure, attracting travelers with its blend of traditional and modern attractions.
To celebrate the launch, West Air is offering special fares, including round-trip tickets between Lhasa and Singapore starting at RMB 1,888 (tax included) and Chongqing to Singapore round-trips from RMB 1,499 (tax included). Additionally, one-way fares to Singapore begin at RMB 350, while fares from Singapore start at SGD 70.
West Air is also introducing several traveler-friendly policies:
- 10% Discount on tickets purchased seven days in advance for small groups.
- Additional 20KG Baggage Allowance for international students and immediate family members, available via the call center (95373) or at the counter.
- “Baggage Beneficial Offer” providing a 30KG free baggage limit.
- Preferential Fares for connecting flights through intermodal transport partnerships with Hainan Airlines and other domestic carriers.
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