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Last updated: January 22, 2025
About
Spring Airlines is China's first and largest private low-cost carrier, headquartered in Shanghai. Founded in 2005, the airline pioneered budget air travel in China and has grown to operate a fleet of 134 aircraft serving over 190 domestic routes and more than 50 international and regional routes across Asia.
The airline operates from dual hubs at Shanghai Pudong (PVG) and Shanghai Hongqiao (SHA), with additional bases in Shenzhen, Shenyang, Shijiazhuang, Ningbo, Chengdu, and other major Chinese cities. Spring Airlines consistently ranks among China's top carriers for on-time performance and has received China's Top Safety Award along with a 7-Star Safety Rating.
As a low-cost carrier, Spring Airlines offers competitive base fares with optional add-ons for baggage, meals, and seat selection. The airline achieved an impressive 91.49% load factor in 2024, demonstrating strong demand for budget travel across China and Asia. Spring Airlines is not part of any global alliance.
Hubs & Focus Cities
Airports where China SSS operates 5+ routes
Network
50 airports served
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Baggage Policy
Carry-On Allowance
Standard Fare (all passengers):
- Dimensions: 40 x 20 x 30 cm (16" x 8" x 12") - smaller than Western carriers
- Weight: 7 kg maximum (strictly enforced)
- Quantity: One piece only
- Must fit in overhead bin
Spring Plus Fare:
- Dimensions: 55 x 20 x 40 cm (22" x 8" x 16")
- Weight: 10 kg maximum
- Quantity: One piece only
Important: Spring Airlines has smaller carry-on dimensions than most carriers. Standard cabin bags from Western airlines may not comply. Weight limits are strictly checked at security, check-in, and boarding gates.
| Fare Type | Dimensions | Weight | Price to Upgrade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 40 x 20 x 30 cm | 7 kg | CNY 160 domestic / CNY 220 international |
| Spring Plus | 55 x 20 x 40 cm | 10 kg | Included |
Checked Baggage
Spring Airlines uses a weight concept system rather than piece-based pricing.
Domestic Flights (China):
| Fare Type | Included | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard fares | 0 kg | Must purchase in advance |
| Spring Plus | 30 kg | Included in fare |
International/Regional Flights:
| Fare Type | Total Allowance | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard fares | 15 kg combined | Carry-on + checked combined |
| Spring Plus | 25 kg | Plus 10kg cabin upgrade |
| Saga departures | 25 kg | All fares from Saga Airport |
Size Limits: Maximum dimensions 100 x 60 x 40 cm (39" x 24" x 16"). Linear limit: 200 cm / 79".
Excess Baggage Fees
Purchasing in Advance (Online/App):
| Weight | Domestic (CNY) | International (CNY) |
|---|---|---|
| 5 kg | From 75 ($10) | From 100 ($14) |
| 10 kg | From 150 ($21) | From 200 ($28) |
| 15 kg | From 225 ($31) | From 300 ($42) |
| 20 kg | From 300 ($42) | From 400 ($56) |
At Airport/Gate (Much Higher):
| Location | Domestic | International |
|---|---|---|
| Check-in counter | Variable by weight | Variable by weight |
| Boarding gate | CNY 300 ($42)/piece | CNY 500 ($69)/piece |
Deadline: Baggage must be purchased at least 1 hour before departure online. After this, airport/gate pricing applies.
Special Items
| Item | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Car seat | Free | Gate-check available |
| Stroller | Free | Gate-check available |
| Wheelchair | Free | Priority handling |
| Sports equipment | Charged | Contact airline for pricing |
| Musical instruments | Charged | Must be properly packed |
Fees as of January 2025. Verify at en.ch.com/flights/excess-baggage before traveling.
In-Flight Experience
Spring Airlines operates an all-economy, single-class configuration across its fleet, maximizing efficiency and offering competitive fares.
Aircraft Fleet:
- Airbus A320ceo: 116 aircraft, 180 seats
- Airbus A321: 12 aircraft, 220+ seats
- Fleet average age: Under 7 years
- Order for 30 A320neo aircraft (delivery 2028-2032)
Economy Seats:
- Seat pitch: 28" (71 cm) standard; 30" (76 cm) in rows 1-2
- Seat width: 18" (46 cm)
- Configuration: 3-3 on all aircraft
- Recline: Non-reclining seats (pre-reclined design for faster turnaround)
- Power: None (no USB or AC outlets)
Seat Categories:
| Seat Type | Location | Pitch | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Rows 14-30 | 28" | From CNY 40 ($6) |
| Forward | Rows 3-11 | 28" | From CNY 60 ($8) |
| Extra Legroom | Rows 12-13 (exit) | 32" | From CNY 100 ($14) |
| Front Row | Rows 1-2 | 30" | From CNY 120 ($17) |
Spring Plus Seating: Spring Plus passengers receive front-row seats with 20-40% more legroom, priority boarding, and dedicated cabin service.
Entertainment:
- No seatback screens
- No streaming entertainment system
- No WiFi on most aircraft
- Bring your own device/content
Food & Beverage:
- Not included in standard fares
- Buy-on-board service available
- Pre-order hot meals: From CNY 79 ($11)
- Snacks and noodles: CNY 20-50 ($3-7)
- Beverages: CNY 10-30 ($1-4)
- Spring Plus: Complimentary hot meal and beverages
Spring Plus Meal Service: Spring Plus passengers receive a freshly prepared hot meal including an entree, side items, bread roll, and dessert, plus complimentary beverages throughout the flight.







