CHONGQING (CQNEWS) -- On December 10, West Air announced that starting December 25, it will launch a new international route connecting Lhasa, Chongqing, and Singapore, which will be the first international route added since Lhasa Kongga International Airport officially changed its name.

The new route will be operated by an Airbus A319, with three round-trip flights per week. The outbound flight, PN6425, will depart from Lhasa at 17:40 Beijing time every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. It will arrive in Chongqing at 20:20, with a subsequent departure from Chongqing at 22:50 (23:00 on Mondays) and arrive in Singapore at 03:55 local time the following day. The return flight, PN6426, will operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. It will depart from Singapore at 04:55 local time, arriving in Chongqing at 09:50 Beijing time. The flight will continue from Chongqing at 12:20 and land in Lhasa at 15:20.

Singapore, with its absence of time difference from China, vibrant Chinese-speaking environment, summer-like climate year-round, and well-developed infrastructure, has long been a dream destination for many Chinese travelers. As of February 9, 2024, the bilateral visa exemption agreement between the governments of China and Singapore officially came into effect, allowing holders of ordinary passports from both nations to travel without a visa. This new route is set to strengthen the bridge between China’s western regions and Southeast Asia, supporting the development of the New Western Land-Sea Corridor and enhancing trade, cultural, and tourism exchanges between Lhasa, Chongqing, and Singapore.

To celebrate the launch of this new route, West Air will offer special discounted fares to attract travelers. Starting soon, the airline will feature live-stream promotions on platforms like Douyin (the Chinese version of TikTok), with round-trip tickets from Lhasa to Singapore priced as low as ¥1888 (taxes included), and from Chongqing to Singapore starting at just ¥1499 (taxes included). In addition, the airline's official website (www.westair.cn) will host similar promotional activities. One-way tickets from Chongqing to Singapore can be purchased for as low as ¥350 (excluding taxes), while flights originating in Singapore are available for as little as S$70 (excluding taxes). Please note that the number of discounted tickets is limited, and once they’re sold out, the promotions will end. (Prices are subject to change, so check for the latest rates.)

West Air, a subsidiary of HNA, has consistently aligned its efforts with the development goals of the Chongqing Municipal Government by expanding its international flight network. Since 2016, the airline has launched direct flights from Chongqing to destinations like Singapore, Phuket, Osaka, Mandalay, Jeju, Bangkok, and Hanoi, establishing a robust international network that links Chongqing to key cities across Asia. These efforts not only facilitate connectivity but also support the region's economic growth and the development of its aviation hub. (Translated by Yuki, Fathom Language Limited)