SINGAPORE- One of the best carriers in the world, Singapore Airlines (SQ), will restart daily flights between Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) and Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH) from 1 June 2026. The move marks the airline’s return to Hangzhou after nearly 28 years.
The new service complements Scoot (TR), which already operates daily flights on the same route, effectively doubling SIA Group capacity between Singapore (SIN) and Hangzhou (HGH).
Singapore Airlines Restarting Hangzhou Flights
Singapore Airlines will deploy its Airbus A350-900 medium-haul aircraft on the route, configured with 303 seats, including 40 in Business Class and 263 in Economy Class. The aircraft features the airline’s 2018 Regional Business Class product in a 1-2-1 layout, ensuring direct aisle access for all premium passengers.
The flight duration of around five hours aligns well with the regional Business Class product, offering a balance between comfort and efficiency for both business and leisure travellers.
This new service strengthens SIA’s footprint in mainland China, where Hangzhou becomes its ninth destination. Across the group, including Scoot, the airline will serve 22 cities in China, underlining a sustained focus on this high-demand market, Mainly Miles flagged.
Mr Dai Haoyu, Senior Vice President Marketing Planning, Singapore Airlines, said in a press release:
The launch of services to Hangzhou caters to demand from both leisure and business travellers to China. This new daily service deepens our presence in a key market for the SIA Group, and offers customers greater flexibility, connectivity, and choice when travelling between Singapore and China, and the wider region.”
Mr Dai Haoyu, Senior Vice President Marketing Planning, Singapore Airlines
Flight Schedule and Operational Details
Singapore Airlines will operate a daily schedule with late afternoon departures from Singapore and early morning returns from Hangzhou. The timing complements Scoot’s existing services while offering passengers additional flexibility.
The inaugural flight SQ838 departs Singapore at 17:40 and arrives in Hangzhou at 22:50. The return flight SQ839 departs Hangzhou at 00:10 and lands in Singapore at 05:10.
| Flight | Route | Departure | Arrival | Duration | Aircraft | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SQ838 | Singapore (SIN) → Hangzhou (HGH) | 17:40 | 22:50 | 5h 10m | A350-900MH | Daily |
| SQ839 | Hangzhou (HGH) → Singapore (SIN) | 00:10 | 05:10 | 5h 00m | A350-900MH | Daily |
Competitive Landscape on the Route
Beyond the SIA Group, several Chinese carriers operate between Singapore and Hangzhou. China Eastern Airlines (MU) runs four weekly flights, Loong Air (GJ) operates three weekly services, and Xiamen Airlines (MF) offers daily connectivity.
Despite this competition, SIA’s full-service offering and premium cabin product position it distinctly for higher-yield passengers.
Historical Context of Hangzhou Operations
Singapore Airlines last served Hangzhou in November 1998, operating Airbus A310 aircraft. The route was discontinued due to low demand following the Asian Financial Crisis.
SilkAir later reintroduced the route in 2014 before transferring operations to Scoot in 2015. The 2026 relaunch represents a strategic return after nearly three decades, reflecting stronger market demand and improved economic conditions.
Hangzhou is a major city in China’s Yangtze River Delta and serves as both a tourism and business hub. The city is known for West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Longjing tea plantations.
Recent infrastructure development and its role as host of the 2022 Asian Games have further elevated its global profile. These factors contribute to the growing demand for premium international connectivity.
KrisFlyer Redemption and Pricing
Hangzhou falls under Zone 4 in the KrisFlyer loyalty program. Award redemptions start from 15,500 miles in Economy Class and 35,500 miles in Business Class for one-way Saver tickets.
Promotional discounts under KrisFlyer Spontaneous Escapes may further reduce redemption rates, making the route attractive for frequent flyers.
Hangzhou Travel Guide
Hangzhou, served by Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH), stands as one of China’s most scenic and culturally rich cities. Major carriers such as Air China (CA) and China Eastern Airlines (MU) connect it to key domestic and international hubs.
Located near Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA), Hangzhou benefits from strong regional connectivity, including high-speed rail links within the Yangtze River Delta.
Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province, combines deep historical roots with modern urban development. Known historically as a capital during the Southern Song Dynasty, the city holds over 2,500 years of cultural heritage. Marco Polo once described it as one of the finest cities in the world, reflecting its long-standing global appeal.
Geographically, Hangzhou sits about 170 kilometers south of Shanghai, making it easily accessible via high-speed rail in about one hour. This proximity positions it as both a cultural escape and a strategic economic center within eastern China. The city also hosted the 2022 Asian Games, further strengthening its global profile.
Key Attractions and Cultural Highlights
West Lake: The Icon of Hangzhou
West Lake defines Hangzhou’s identity. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers seasonal beauty with lotus blooms in summer and calm, reflective landscapes in winter. The lake also features historic temples, pagodas, and gardens.
Grand Canal: Historic Engineering Landmark
The Grand Canal, extending over 1,700 kilometers from Beijing to Hangzhou, represents one of the oldest and longest man-made waterways in the world. Built in 486 BC, it played a vital role in trade and cultural exchange across China.
Water Towns Near Hangzhou
Wuzhen and Nanxun offer a glimpse into traditional Chinese life. Wuzhen is known for its preserved architecture and night views, while Nanxun provides a quieter and more authentic experience.
Longjing Tea Culture
Hangzhou is the origin of Longjing tea, one of China’s most famous green teas. Visitors can explore tea plantations like Meijiawu, observe traditional tea-making, and understand local agricultural practices.
Silk Heritage
Hangzhou has been a center of silk production for over two millennia. Its silk is known for high quality, soft texture, and vibrant colors, contributing to the city’s economic and cultural identity.
Lifestyle and Travel Experience
Hangzhou offers a slower pace of life compared to Shanghai. Visitors often explore the city through walking, cycling, and boat rides around West Lake. Tea houses, scenic walks, and cultural tours define the travel experience.
The city follows pedestrian-friendly planning in many areas, making it accessible for leisure travelers. Nearby water towns further enhance the relaxed atmosphere with historic streets and canals.
Hangzhou vs Shanghai
Hangzhou and Shanghai complement each other. Hangzhou focuses on nature, heritage, and slower living, while Shanghai represents modern urban China with skyscrapers and global business activity.
High-speed trains connect both cities in about one hour, making dual-city itineraries efficient and practical.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer the best conditions. Spring highlights blooming flowers around West Lake, while autumn provides mild weather and clear skies.
Peak travel periods include Chinese public holidays such as Labor Day and National Day. Early booking is recommended during these times.
Transportation and Accessibility
Hangzhou is well-connected by air and rail. Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH) links the city to major domestic and international destinations.
High-speed trains connect Hangzhou to cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Suzhou, and Xi’an. Local transport includes buses, taxis, and private vehicles for nearby excursions.
Food and Dining
Hangzhou cuisine features mild and slightly sweet flavors. Signature dishes include Dongpo pork, West Lake fish, Beggar’s chicken, and shrimp cooked with Longjing tea.
The city also offers vegetarian, Muslim-friendly, and international dining options, catering to diverse traveler needs.
Hangzhou’s Modern Identity
Hangzhou is the headquarters of Alibaba, founded in 1999. The company has transformed the city into a major hub for digital innovation and mobile payments. Cashless transactions are widely used across daily services.
Bottom Line
Singapore Airlines’ return to Hangzhou restores a key link between Singapore and eastern China.
The daily Airbus A350 service enhances connectivity, supports growing demand, and reinforces the airline’s long-term China strategy.
Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News
