"My flight departed from the domestic side of departures," noted our journalist, "as my destination was Chengdu." The recommendation was to arrive at the airport three hours before departure for check-in procedures.
Sichuan Airlines began its journey on September 19, 1986, initially operating as Sichuan Airlines Company. The airline took off with its first flight on July 14, 1988. It transitioned into Sichuan Airlines Co., Ltd. on August 29, 2002. Stakeholders include Sichuan Airlines Co., Ltd. Group holding a 40% share, China Southern Airlines with a 39% stake, China Eastern Airlines and Air China Group owning 10%, and Chengdu Gingko Restaurant Co. contributing 1%.
As boarding time approached, passengers gathered at the gate about an hour before scheduled departure to capture videos of the inbound flight—marking this airframe's maiden commercial voyage.
"The aircraft boasted a distinctive decal featuring iconic pandas," reported our journalist. Boarding commenced without any particular arrangement; passengers boarded on a first-come-first-serve basis.
Upon reaching seat 44A—a window seat with a view of the A350's winglet—the thematic elements continued inside with pandas drawn on headrests and overhead bins.
After takeoff at cruising altitude (38,000ft), lunch was served in a box featuring an adorable brioche bun resembling a panda alongside yogurt and tomato chips.
The in-flight entertainment offered limited Western movie selections but included interesting Chinese films.
The journey concluded with deplaning via bus gate at CTU Airport, providing close-up views of the unique livery one last time before entering Chengdu Airport.
According to China Travel News, "the panda theme on the aircraft is not just decorative—it is closely tied to meaningful conservation efforts." The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding has adopted eight pandas showcased in this aircraft's livery.
The base mimics natural habitats for giant pandas and cares for other rare species over an area covered largely in greenery.
Flying with Sichuan Airlines on their thematic Panda Route combines aviation enthusiasm with conservation commitments through partnerships supporting giant panda breeding programs.
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