About TV
TV is a Chinese regional carrier operating primarily within China's domestic network, with its main hub planted firmly at Chengdu Tianfu International (CTU). The airline runs 274 non-stop routes across 72 airports, which sounds impressive until you notice that 271 of those routes stay inside China — this is fundamentally a domestic operation with a couple of international exceptions into Hong Kong and Vietnam. Think of it as a workhorse airline serving the southwest and central regions of China, connecting cities that bigger carriers often treat as afterthoughts.
Why fly TV?
If you're moving around western and central China — and honestly, more nomads are starting to base out of Chengdu — TV's route map starts making a lot of sense. The LXA hub alone (that's Lhasa, Tibet) gives you 26 routes, which is genuinely useful if you're trying to reach the plateau without routing through Beijing or Shanghai first. The NKG-LXA route stretches 2,684 km, which is the airline's longest, and that kind of reach into remote destinations is where TV earns its keep. For travelers who find the big Chinese carriers overpriced on regional hops, TV's positioning as a regional player likely means more competitive fares on routes the majors don't fight hard over.
TV hub airports
- CTU Chengdu — 26 TV routes from China
- LXA Lhasa/Lasa — 26 TV routes from China
- XIY Xian — 16 TV routes from China
- MIG Mian Yang — 15 TV routes from China
- XNN Xining — 12 TV routes from China
Top destination countries on TV
- China — 271 TV routes
- Hong Kong SAR — 2 TV routes
- Viet Nam — 1 TV routes
Tips for booking TV
Book directly or through Chinese OTAs like Ctrip for the best fare visibility — TV's inventory doesn't always surface cleanly on Western booking platforms. The XIY (Xi'an) hub is useful if you're doing a Silk Road-style trip through central China. Given the domestic focus, don't expect English-language ground support to be strong at smaller outstations. Check baggage allowances carefully at booking — regional Chinese carriers can vary significantly between fare classes. If you're connecting onward internationally, build in extra buffer time since TV's network doesn't suggest deep interline partnerships with major global carriers.
Frequently asked questions about TV
Where does TV (Sichuan Airlines) fly?
TV operates 274 routes primarily serving destinations across China, Hong Kong SAR, and Vietnam. The airline focuses on connecting major cities within Asia, with particular strength in mainland Chinese routes.
What is TV's main hub airport?
Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) serves as TV's primary hub, making it a key connection point for the airline's network across Asia.
Is TV a legacy carrier, low-cost airline, or regional carrier?
TV is a regional carrier operating primarily within Asia with a substantial domestic and regional network. Based on its route network and hub structure, it operates as a full-service regional airline rather than a low-cost carrier.
When should I book TV flights and what fare classes are available?
Booking 4-6 weeks in advance typically offers better fares on TV flights. The airline offers multiple fare classes with varying levels of flexibility, baggage allowances, and amenities.
What are TV's baggage and check-in policies?
Baggage allowances vary by fare class and route; most passengers are permitted one carry-on bag plus a personal item, with checked baggage dependent on ticket type. Online check-in is typically available 24 hours before departure at tv.sc.com.cn or through the airline's mobile app.