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Urumqi Airlines unbundles services
March 22nd 2019
Trial covers three domestic flights from Urumqi. Read More »
Urumqi Airlines this month joins the list of mainland Chinese airlines that are partially unbundling services as they experiment with what service model is best for the domestic Chinese market, soon to be the world’s biggest.
Luggage and onboard services have been adjusted on Urumqi Airlines flights from Urumqi to Wuhan, Xi’an and Zhengzhou. First class passengers receive 30kg checked luggage. Four economy fare classes receive 20kg luggage while 13 economy fare classes receive 10kg. This gradual evolution was regionally seen in Korea, where LCCs slowly decreased luggage allowance. Additional luggage can be purchased with every 5kg costing 50 yuan (US$7) if booked online.
New snacks and drinks are loaded for onboard sales while pre-order meals range from 39-49 yuan (US$6-$7).
The trial, of unspecified length, aims to offer value-added services and differentiation, current buzzwords in mainland aviation. Urumqi Airlines says the change is due to diverse passenger needs but also market conditions and the airline’s own corporate development. One local article claims passengers are becoming more rational and will understand the simplified approach.
Urumqi Airlines, partially owned by HNA, was a founding member of the U-Fly Alliance although it was not explicitly a LCC.
