CHONGQING (CQNEWS) -- A brand-new Airbus A319neo aircraft with the registration number B-32JM arrived at Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport from Hamburg, Germany at 10:55 AM on January 16, 2025, which marks the debut of West Air’s first A319neo and also the world’s first Airbus aircraft equipped with a Distributed Pulse Oxygen Supply System. The aircraft will be deployed to support the Spring Festival travel rush in 2025.

The introduction of the Distributed Pulse Oxygen Supply System significantly enhances the aircraft’s safety and increases its cargo-carrying capacity. In special circumstances, this system can even facilitate the transportation of strategic goods. Additionally, the A319neo features the latest LEAP-1A engines, offering superior fuel efficiency and reduced noise, making it perfectly suited for high-altitude airport operations. For these reasons, the aircraft has earned the affectionate nickname “High Plateau Prince” in the industry.

The A319neo features several design and layout optimizations. Configured in an all-economy class layout, the aircraft offers 144 seats with increased seat pitch, providing passengers with a more comfortable travel experience. Furthermore, the aircraft features Airbus's new SPACE FLEX toilets, which optimize space layout and multifunction integration, reducing the overall size of the restroom area while enhancing passenger comfort.

Before the introduction of the A319neo, West Air already operated a fleet of 44 aircraft from the A320 family, which includes four A319s, 32 A320s, and eight A321s. In 2024, the airline added five A321s to its fleet and plans to acquire another six in 2025. By the end of 2025, West Air’s total fleet is expected to reach 50 aircraft.

During the 2025 Spring Festival travel period, West Air will operate over 1,000 additional domestic flights, particularly strengthening capacity on routes to and from markets such as Sichuan-Chongqing, Hainan, Henan, and Anhui. Popular routes, including Chongqing to Beihai, Haikou, Lijiang, and Xishuangbanna, will see increased flight frequencies to better accommodate passengers traveling for family reunions or leisure trips. Additionally, West Air will deploy larger A321 aircraft on key domestic routes such as Chongqing ⇋ Shenzhen, Chongqing ⇋ Guangzhou, Zhengzhou ⇋ Guangzhou, Chongqing ⇋ Shanghai (Pudong), Chongqing ⇋ Sanya, and Sanya ⇋ Nanchang ⇋ Harbin, enhancing both capacity and passenger comfort.

On the international front, West Air has already launched direct flights from Chongqing to Phuket and Hanoi, and from Zhengzhou and Hefei to Bangkok, along with a route connecting Lhasa, Chongqing, and Singapore. With over 40 international flights per week, the airline offers passengers more travel options and convenience. (Translated by Yuki, Fathom Language Limited)