Spring Airlines Review [2025]: China's best low-cost carrier?

You want the best deal possible when it comes to airfare. But it's just as vital that you feel secure and comfortable during your flight. From the minute you start planning your trip to the moment you disembark, it's your right to expect a hassle-free experience. 

Keep in mind that some low-cost airlines can be unreliable and disorganized. Spring Airlines is a low-cost Chinese airline flying to various domestic and international destinations. 

A quick search of reviews will show travelers' mixed opinions regarding this airline. Some customers are less complimentary, citing uncomfortable seating and long delays. 

Others praise the convenience of booking tickets and claim Spring Airlines is an excellent value for money. Many find the airline comparable to other low-cost carriers in Asia, such as Jetstar Airways, Go First, and Thai Lion Air.

Before jumping to conclusions, weigh your options with this in-depth review of Spring Airlines.

What is Spring Airlines?

Spring Airlines is one of the country's major low-cost carriers headquartered in Shanghai, China. It operates flights across China, as well as to Japan, South Korea, Thailand, and more. The airline is known for its affordable fares.

Spring Airlines continues expanding its services with a large fleet of 116 planes. Founded in 2004, the airline now flies to nearly 10 international destinations. It's also the first airline in China to earn a safety reward from the Civil Aviation Administration of China. 

The airline has domestic bases in Hongqiao, Pudong, Shenyang, Shijiazhuang, Shenzhen, Yangzhou, Ningbo, and Jieyang. Spring Airlines' slogan, "Don't think, just fly!" has given customers the assurance and confidence to book with the airline.

Where does Spring Airlines fly?

The availability of plenty of routes makes it an attractive option for budget travelers. The airline offers a range of services tailored to its customers for long-distance flights. Currently,

the airline flies to over 100 destinations. And with its expansion plans, that number is likely to increase.

Spring Airline's domestic routes in China

• Lanzhou
• Macau
• Nanjing
• Nanning
• Qianjiang
• Qionghai
• Quanzhou
• Sanya
• Shanghai
• Shenzhen...and more

Spring Airline's international destinations

• Cambodia
• Indonesia
• Japan
• Thailand
• Vietnam
• Malaysia
• Myanmar
• Singapore
• South Korea
• Taiwan
  

Spring Airlines Booking

It's not surprising that booking a flight with Spring Airlines is economical and convenient. The airline offers various services that cater to the needs of budget travelers.

If you're looking for an even better deal, use Skyscanner to find the best deals on most airlines, including Spring Airlines! 

Spring Airlines' pre-flight services

Here are some of the extra services that Spring Airlines offers to its customers.

Insurance

Spring Airlines has teamed up with Huatai Insurance, ACE, and Zhongan to offer electronic accident coverage. This can cover accidents, lost luggage, flight cancellations, and delays. Learn more about Spring Airlines' insurance plans on their website. 

Convenient payment options

Spring Airlines accepts the majority of debit and credit cards. This is incredibly convenient for tourists visiting from foreign countries.

Spring Airlines flights

An updated online schedule is available to review before booking.

Airport shuttles

The airline operates airport shuttles for your convenience. No need to frantically search for transport when you land at a new destination!

Membership benefits

Spring Airlines offers membership benefits for frequent flyers.

Ticket verification

You can easily verify your ticket on the airline's website.

Spring Airlines onboard services

Spring plus 

This option allows you to enjoy additional services to make your flight more comfortable.

Onboard meals

Various options are available, from light snacks to full meals.

VIP shuttle

For passengers traveling with a Spring Plus ticket, the airline offers a VIP shuttle service allowing you to sit and relax while your luggage is retrieved. Staff will escort you directly to the arrival zone.

Post-flight services

Ticket refunding

You can redeem your tickets for any delayed or canceled flight as long as you abide by Spring Airline's terms and conditions.

Passenger survey

The airline values your opinions and feedback, so it offers a passenger survey online for you to fill in.

Electronic invoice

Spring Airlines also offers an electronic invoice service to easily access your booking details and records.

What is Spring Plus?

The Spring Plus program offers services that make your journey with Spring Airlines more enjoyable. You get priority boarding, front seat selection, and more. Check out all the benefits provided as part of the Spring Plus program:

• Priority boarding and check-in
• Front row seating
• 20% - 40% more legroom
• Earn spring pass points
• 30 kg check-in baggage allowance
• 10 kg carry-on luggage for free
• Ticket flexibility

Is Spring Airlines worth it?

Spring Airlines is worth it considering if you're looking for the most budget-friendly option to fly in North East Asia. Spring Airlines offers passengers a range of services and benefits that are hard to beat. 

Spring Airlines' competitive prices, convenient online booking, and impressive network of routes, Spring Airlines is perfect for budget travelers looking for a reliable and cost-effective airline. Considering all the extra in-flight amenities and the Spring Plus program, there's little to criticize this airline about. 

However, travelers have also complained of poor customer service, delayed flights, and uncomfortable seating. Some have also criticized the airline for its lack of amenities, cramped seating, and a slightly unrealistic baggage policy. These issues can be a deal breaker for some travelers.

Our rating: 4.1/5

Pros:

• Variety of purchase options
• Quick boarding
• Low prices

Cons:

• Uncomfortable seating
• Unrealistic baggage policy
• Flight delays
  

Ready to put a spring in your step?

Still wondering which airline to settle on for your trip? All this decision-making and planning can be daunting, so it's nice to know there's a travel app that can help you keep track of all your ideas and options!