Samchui is hiring : Social Media in August

Overview

Sichuan Airlines operates the Airbus A350-900 with Panda livery on domestic routes from Chengdu to Beijing, Shanghai and Hangzhou. The A350 also operates international flights from Chengdu via Jinan or Hangzhou to Los Angeles and between Chengdu and Auckland.

Travel Details

I booked a one-way discount Business Class ticket from Beijing to Chengdu. The price was RMB 2,100 (Booking Class : A) on Ctrip (a large Chinese online travel agent).

Lounge Experience

Sichuan Airlines uses Terminal 3 at Beijing Capital International Airport. My discount ticket did not include lounge access, but I was invited to view the lounge since I was filming a video. The lounge is after security and one level below the concourse. The Sichuan Airlines VIP Lounge has a boutique feel. It is long but not large. There were hot meals served according to a sign, with packaged snacks and instant noodles available at all times.

On-Board Experience

I was the first to board and received a warm welcome. I was fortunate to fly the latest Panda-themed A350 (Registration : B-306N). There are 28 Business Class seats in a reverse herringbone 1-2-1 configuration, followed by 303 Economy Class seats in a 3-3-3 configuration across two main cabins. After settling in, I was offered a glass of Chinese tea instead of the typical OJ or champagne.

Cabin and Service Details

In Economy Class there are two meal options described as pork slices with cucumber and bean paste sauce, chili fish fillet, spiced vegetables, noodles with peanut sauce and other condiments. The meals feature panda-themed presentation on rice and dessert. The beverage service included floral tea. A panda apron was provided before departure from the cabin. Economy offered panda buns with a sweet filling; there is also a panda-themed coaster and tablets used for menus.

Flight Details

Departure from Beijing was on-time at 11 : 10 am from Runway 36R. The flight to Chengdu lasted about 2.5 hours. A panda-themed steam mask was provided after takeoff to help relaxation and rest.

Conclusion

The Sichuan Airlines A350 experience was delightful, with a strong panda theme and cheerful crew who paid attention to all passengers. Some crew members spoke excellent English. With more A350s entering international service, I would consider flying Sichuan Airlines if the fare is right; however, the airline is not in any alliance and crediting their frequent-flyer program can be challenging for non-Chinese itineraries.

Video

Video of my Sichuan Airlines A350 Flight.

#J-18808-Ljbffr