West Air is set to launch a new international route linking Lhasa, Chongqing, and Singapore this Christmas Day, fostering cultural exchange between western China and Singapore. This marks the first international route addition since the official renaming of Lhasa Gongga International Airport (IATA: LXA, ICAO: ZULS). In 2016 West Air launched thrice weekly flights from between Chongqing and Changi Airport.
The thrice-weekly flights between Lhasa and Singapore will be operated on an Airbus A319, featuring a 3-3 seat configuration.
Flight Schedule:
- Lhasa → Chongqing → Singapore (PN6425)
Depart Lhasa: 5:40 PM → Arrive Chongqing: 8:30 PM
Depart Chongqing: 10:50 PM (11:00 PM on Mondays) → Arrive Singapore: 3:55 AM the next day
Frequency: Monday, Wednesday, Friday - Singapore → Chongqing → Lhasa (PN6426)
Depart Singapore: 4:55 AM → Arrive Chongqing: 9:40 AM
Depart Chongqing: 12:20 PM → Arrive Lhasa: 3:20 PM
Frequency: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Lhasa, the capital of Tibet Autonomous Region in China, is often referred to as the “City of Sunshine.” Perched at an altitude of 3,650 meters, this mystical destination offers a blend of ancient spirituality and breathtaking natural beauty. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks like the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and the bustling Barkhor Street, home to vibrant markets and traditional Tibetan culture.
The Sera and Drepung Monasteries offer a glimpse into the spiritual life of monks, while festivals like Losar (Tibetan New Year) and the Shoton Festival showcase local traditions. The city’s natural surroundings, including the Himalayas and tranquil lakes like Yamdrok and Namtso, create a dreamlike backdrop for adventure and reflection. While its high altitude poses physical challenges, the experience is undeniably rewarding for travellers seeking spiritual and cultural immersion.
To celebrate the new route, West Air is offering attractive promotional fares. Round-trip tickets from Lhasa to Singapore start from RMB1,888, and fares from Chongqing to Singapore are priced from RMB1,400 — both inclusive of taxes. One-way fares to Singapore begin at RMB350 (taxes excluded), while fares from Singapore start at S$70 (excluding taxes).
Passengers flying with West Air can enjoy several travel perks. Small groups booking at least seven days in advance receive a 10% discount. International students and their immediate family members benefit from an additional 20kg of baggage allowance. The airline’s Baggage Beneficial Offer grants travellers a 30kg free baggage limit, ensuring a smoother journey. For those with onward domestic flights, West Air offers preferential fares and seamless connectivity through intermodal transport with Hainan Airlines and other partners, making multi-leg journeys more economical and convenient.
This new route reflects West Air’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its international network. Since 2016, the airline — a subsidiary of HNA Airlines — has introduced direct routes from Chongqing to major destinations like Singapore, Phuket, Osaka, Mandalay, Jeju, Bangkok, and Hanoi. In line with China’s “Belt and Road” initiative, West Air aims to drive regional development by investing in emerging markets and expanding its route network to meet the growing demand for international travel.