Singapore's skies belong to the SIA Group's two brands: perennial world-number-one Singapore Airlines and widebody-LCC Scoot. Third carrier Jetstar Asia shut down at the end of July 2025, redrawing Changi's map. For travellers from China, Singapore is the key value gateway to Australia, New Zealand and Europe.
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Singapore Airlines: the benchmark
Singapore Airlines (SQ) is practically synonymous with "world's best airline" — five SKYTRAX stars, repeated overall wins, the A380 Suites, and economy catering and service that lead the industry. A Star Alliance member hubbed at Changi, it connects six continents, with dense links from Chinese cities onward to Australia/NZ, Europe and South Asia. KrisFlyer is shared with Scoot.
Scoot: the widebody LCC
Scoot (TR) is unusual among LCCs: its backbone is the 787, flown on medium and long-haul budget routes. For price-driven travellers, China–Singapore–Australia/NZ on Scoot is routinely the cheapest path on the market, alongside a dense Southeast Asia network. Classic LCC pricing applies — ScootPlus (30kg bag, better seat) is usually worth it on long sectors.
Changi: built for connections
Changi wins "world's best airport" year after year: four terminals on a Skytrain, visa-free sterile transit, ~60-minute minimum connections, and Jewel's waterfall, free cinema and butterfly garden for longer layovers. Chinese passport holders may also qualify for the 96-hour visa-free transit (VTF) to enter the city. Bags through-check on SIA/Scoot single tickets.
The Singapore price logic
To Australia/NZ, Scoot bare fare plus baggage usually beats full-service nonstops by 30–50%, while SIA runs off-season sales with two free bags. To Europe, SIA one-stops booked 2–3 months out price near the Gulf carriers with a better product. KrisFlyer redemptions on SIA premium cabins remain among the best-value awards in Star Alliance.
Frequently asked questions
What happened to Jetstar Asia tickets?
Jetstar Asia ceased flying on 31 July 2025; refunds and rebooking are handled by the Qantas Group, and Scoot took over several routes. Search Singapore routes on SIA and Scoot.
Do SIA and Scoot share miles?
Yes — both use KrisFlyer. Eligible Scoot fares earn miles, and awards can be redeemed on either brand.
Do Chinese passports need a visa to transit Singapore?
Airside transit is visa-free. To enter the city, the 96-hour VTF may apply when connecting to a third country — conditions change, verify before travel.