Note: this is an independent guide, not the official Sichuan Airlines website. Official site: www.sichuanair.com
Sichuan Airlines (IATA code 3U) is a full-service carrier from Mainland China operating out of Chengdu Shuangliu & Tianfu.
Founded in 1986 and part of 四川航空集团.
Sichuan Airlines flies an all-Airbus fleet in panda livery from Chengdu’s two airports. It is a specialist in high-altitude routes (Lhasa, Daocheng) and flies from Chengdu to Europe and Southeast Asia. Its Sichuan-style catering has a cult following.
This page gathers the essentials for flying with Sichuan Airlines: official website, fares, online check-in, baggage rules and customer service contacts.
Since its founding in 1986, Sichuan Airlines has grown into a significant force in the Mainland China market with the backing of 四川航空集团.
Network & hub
The network is strongest across Chengdu dual hub; the high-plateau route specialist. Departing from Chengdu Shuangliu & Tianfu gets you the best frequencies, timings and irregular-ops backup; from non-base cities expect more one-stops, so watch total journey time when booking.
Booking & travel tips
Booking tips: fares float with live inventory — 2–6 weeks out (2–4 months long-haul) is usually the trough, and member pricing can undercut platforms. Add your Golden Panda number at booking; retro-crediting needs boarding passes. Paid upgrade windows open around check-in at prices well below purchase-time premiums, and pre-bought extra baggage saves 30%+ versus airport rates.
The official website is www.sichuanair.com. AirFlights.cn is an independent guide with price-comparison links.
How do I find cheap Sichuan Airlines tickets?
Compare live fares on Trip.com — prices vary a lot by date and cabin — or book directly on the airline's own site. Airline member days and seasonal sales bring extra discounts.
Does Sichuan Airlines offer online check-in?
Online/app check-in opens 24h before departure at most airports (07:00 the day before at Chengdu hubs); closes ~60 min before domestic, ~90 min international.
What is the Sichuan Airlines baggage allowance?
Standard economy 1 x 23kg (some routes/fares 2 x 23kg; business 2 x 32kg).
What is the Sichuan Airlines frequent flyer program?
Golden Panda. Registration is free; miles can be redeemed for tickets, upgrades and partner benefits.
Where is the Sichuan Airlines hub?
The main base is Chengdu Shuangliu & Tianfu — the widest choice of frequencies, timings and connections is from there.
