Sichuan Airlines, a Chinese carrier based in Chengdu, has captured the hearts of aviation enthusiasts and panda lovers alike with its unique A350 fleet featuring panda-themed liveries. This innovative approach to aircraft design not only showcases the airline’s pride in its Sichuan roots but also supports an important conservation cause.
This is one of the coolest A350 liveries out there!
Let’s explore a little about the history and how it all came about and then we can take a look at the business class cabin onboard this A350, including what you can expect and which seats are the ones to look out for.
Before we get started, if you are travelling soon and need some packing tips, download this ultimate travel packing list for helpful suggestions you might not have thought of!
Now, let’s get to the pandas!
The Panda Fleet
Sichuan Airlines currently operates a fleet of Airbus A350-900 aircraft, with eight sporting the distinctive panda livery. These special aircraft are part of the airline’s “Panda Route” initiative, which began in 2018.
As of 2024, the airline operates at least eight A350-900 aircraft, with plans to increase its total A350 fleet to ten.
The panda-themed A350s include the following registration codes / tail numbers:
B-301D
B-306N
B-325J
B-32AG
B-32F8
B-32G2
B-304U
B-32G6
Each aircraft is sequentially named with “Xiong” meaning Bear followed by a number or description. For example, Xiong Da (Big Bear), Xiong Yi (Bear One), Xiong Er (Bear two), Xiong San (Bear three), Xiong Si (Bear Four) and so forth.
The Panda Livery
The panda livery is a striking visual representation of Sichuan’s most famous resident. Sichuan Airlines features eight pandas on its aircraft livery, which symbolizes the airline’s commitment to panda conservation.
The A350 livery design is representative of the three pandas that Sichuan Airlines has officially adopted from the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
The Sichuan Airlines A350 livery design goes beyond mere decoration; it serves as a flying ambassador for panda conservation efforts. The panda theme is not limited to the exterior of the aircraft. Inside, passengers are treated to a fully immersive panda experience, from the moment they step on board until they disembark.
The Origin of the Panda Theme
The panda theme is deeply rooted in Sichuan’s cultural identity. The Sichuan province is considered the home of the Giant Panda, with Chengdu hosting the largest panda breeding center in the world.
Sichuan Airlines adopted a baby panda named 3U and nicknamed “You You” in 2017. “You You” was adopted from the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, and the panda has since become the official ambassador for Sichuan Airlines’ “Panda Route” program. This program aims to enhance the airline’s international routes and promote cultural exchange by linking destinations with Chengdu, the home of the giant panda. The baby panda, You You, is featured on the airline’s panda-themed Airbus A350 aircraft, with its image incorporated into the livery of these specially painted planes.
“Youyou” is the official mascot of the panda route. This mascot serves as a symbol of the airline’s dedication to panda conservation and its connection to the Sichuan region.
Sichuan Airlines, being headquartered in Chengdu, saw an opportunity to showcase this unique aspect of their heritage while also supporting an important cause. The airline launched its first panda-themed route in 2018, connecting Beijing and Chengdu. This initiative was not just about creating a visually appealing aircraft; it was part of a broader commitment to fund and support the protection of China’s beloved national treasure.
The A350 Cabin Experience
The A350-900 aircraft used by Sichuan Airlines for these special routes are configured with 28 business class seats and 303 economy class seats.
Unlike other carriers such as Singapore Airlines A350-900, the business class cabin features a reverse herringbone 1-2-1 configuration, providing each passenger with direct aisle access and a high degree of privacy. It is more on par with the new Cathay Pacific a350-1000 seat map.
Business Class Cabin
The business class experience on Sichuan Airlines’ panda-themed A350s is truly unique. Here are some of the standout features:
- Panda-themed amenities: Passengers are provided with panda-themed steam masks to help them relax during the flight.
- Customized meal service: The airline offers a special panda-themed meal service in business class. The presentation is exceptional, with many dishes featuring panda motifs. For example, rice and dessert cakes may be shaped or decorated to resemble pandas.
- Panda aprons: Flight attendants wear cute panda aprons while serving meals, adding to the thematic experience.
- Specialized beverages: Instead of the usual champagne or orange juice, passengers may be offered Chinese tea upon boarding, aligning with local tastes and traditions.
- Panda-themed soft furnishings: The cabin features panda-inspired headrest covers and other soft furnishings, creating a cohesive thematic environment.
Unique Onboard Experience
The panda theme extends beyond just visual elements:
- Chili sauce service: In a nod to Sichuan’s famous spicy cuisine, flight attendants offer a special chili sauce to passengers, catering to the local palate.
- Panda buns: Cute panda-shaped buns with sweet fillings are served as part of the meal service.
- Panda-themed Meals: The airline serves meals that are creatively presented with panda designs. For example, rice and dessert cakes may be shaped like pandas. Furthermore the meals often feature local Sichuan dishes such as chili fish fillet and pork slices with cucumber and bean paste sauce.
- Special Welcome Drink: Instead of the usual orange juice or champagne, passengers are greeted with traditional Chinese tea. This aligns with the local culture and providing a healthier option.
- Panda coffee: Even the coffee service gets the panda treatment, with specially designed latte art.
- Multilingual crew: Some crew members are noted for their excellent English skills, enhancing the experience for international travelers.
- Crew Uniforms: Flight attendants wear panda-themed uniforms or accessories, such as panda aprons in the kitchen, reinforcing the theme throughout the journey.
- Route branding: These aircraft operate on specially designated “Panda Routes”
- Themed Cabin Decor: The cabin features panda-themed soft furnishings, including headrest covers adorned with cartoon pandas. This creates an immersive experience from the moment passengers step on board.
- Cultural experience: The entire flight experience is designed to showcase Sichuan culture and China’s national treasure, the giant panda
While the underlying A350 aircraft technology remains the same, the unique panda-themed elements create a distinctive passenger experience that goes beyond the ordinary. Sichuan Airlines has infused these aircraft with charm, from panda-themed cabin interiors to special meals and amenities, making it a true immersive experience. As you settle in, you might find yourself admiring these thematic features for a while before you sit back and relax on your flight. Not only does the theme enhance the journey, but the airline also offers gifts for the traveler, such as panda-themed souvenirs, further enhancing the fun and memorable nature of the flight.
Sichuan Airlines A350-900 Business Class Seat Map
- Number of business class seats: 28
- Seat pitch: 42 inches
- Seat width: 22 inches
- Recline: 180 degrees (fully flat)
The seat layout is in a 1-2-1 configuration, which is typical for business class on A350 aircraft. This configuration provides direct aisle access for all business class passengers.
Avoid Seats: 1A, 1D/1G, 1K AND Rows 6 & 7– put simply they are next to the lavatories and galley.
Best Seats: Rows 3 & 4 – more private, less noise and traffic but still within the quick service and disembarkation.
Route Network Sichuan Airlines A350-900
Initially, the panda-themed A350s were primarily deployed on domestic routes within China, connecting Chengdu to cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Hangzhou. However, as the fleet has expanded, these special aircraft have also been used on international routes. In fact, I spotted one at Sydney Airport just a couple days ago.
This expansion of routes allows Sichuan Airlines to showcase its unique panda-themed service to a global audience, promoting both the airline and Sichuan’s panda conservation efforts internationally.
Passenger Experience and Reception
The panda-themed flights have been well-received by passengers, offering a unique and memorable travel experience. The attention to detail in the theming, from the exterior livery to the onboard amenities and service, creates a cohesive and immersive journey that sets Sichuan Airlines apart from other carriers.
Many travelers have praised the airline for its warm and attentive service, delicious meals, and the overall novelty of the panda theme. The experience is particularly appealing to families travelling with kids and panda enthusiasts, making it a standout choice for those traveling to or within China.
A notable change at Sichuan Airlines is the shift away from traditional paper menus, with the airline now using tablets to present meal options.
Sum Up
Sichuan Airlines’ A350 business class, particularly on its panda-themed aircraft, offers a truly unique aviation experience. By combining their service with a playful and meaningful theme, the airline has created a product that not only stands out in the competitive aviation market but also supports an important conservation cause.
The panda-themed A350s serve as flying ambassadors for Sichuan province and its most famous residents. From the striking exterior livery to the carefully curated onboard experience, every aspect of these flights is designed to delight passengers and raise awareness about panda conservation.
As Sichuan Airlines continues to expand its A350 fleet and potentially add more panda-themed aircraft, it’s clear that this innovative approach to airline branding and service will continue to captivate travelers from around the world. For those seeking a flight experience that goes beyond the ordinary, Sichuan Airlines’ panda-themed A350 business class offers a journey that is as memorable as it is comfortable.
