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Flights booking FAQ

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  1. How can I book flights through ChinaSpringTour?
  2. Do I have to be a registered member of ChinaSpringTour.com to make a booking?
    No, not at all. After selecting your flights online, you are offered the option of registering, signing in to your account or skipping the process. However, we encourage frequent travelers to create an account to make the booking process easier.
  3. What classes of ticket is it possible to book online
    Depending on availability, it is possible to book economy, business class and first class tickets. Please be aware that different airlines have different definitions of class ratings.  The following descriptions are fairly broad.
    Economy class- inexpensive seating in the main cabin area with minimal extras to minimize cost.
    Business class- features roomier seats that recline further, providing more leg room. Other perks can include shorter lines at check-in and use of the airline's airport business lounge. Business class tickets cost more than Economy class, but less than First class tickets. Business class tickets often include improved catering options.
    F irst class - First class passengers are usually seated in the cabin area nearest the front of the aircraft.  Spacious and ergonomically designed seating area for maximum comfort.  Other perks can include shorter lines at check-in and use of the airline's airport business lounge. First Class fares are almost always the most expensive and are not available on all aircraft.
  4. How far in advance can I book a flight online?
    You can make reservation at anytime as long as a flight is available. To guarantee a place on any flight, it is advisable to book a ticket as soon as possible.
    However, it is only possible to pay offline if the flight is leaving within 48 hours.
  5. How do I know that my booking has been successful?
    After the reservation has been completed, a confirmation message will appear on screen. If your attempt is unsuccessful, the system will offer the direct contact information of the customer service department, along with an explanation of why the process failed.
  6. Is it possible to select a particular seat when booking online?
    It is not possible to request a seat when booking online.  Those requesting a particular seat may do so at the check-in counter.
  7. How do I amend a flight reservation?
    If the ticket has not been issued, cancel and rebook the ticket online with your new requirements.  It is also possible to amend flight bookings through our customer service team.  Their contact details can be found throughout the website.
    Flight amendment policy:
    To change your flight, date or class more than 48 hours before departure will incur no extra charge.  However, altering your flight reservation more than once will incur a service fee.
    To change to another airlines flight, it is necessary to cancel your original flight (if a cancellation fee is incurred, your airfare will be partially refunded) and make a new flight purchase.
  8. What is the maximum number of persons I can book onto a flight at one time?  At what stage does a large booking become eligible for group rates?
    There is no restriction on the number of passengers, as long as tickets are available
    Parties of ten persons or more are eligible for a group rate.  Please contact our customer service department for more information on how to make savings on your holiday packages.
  9. What can I do if I fail to find the destination or flight I am seeking on ChinaSpringTour.com?
    There are many reasons why you may not be able to find your desired flight/location.  For assistance please contact our customer service staff at cs@ChinaSpringTour.com or call
           400-820-6222 ext.2 (from within China)
  10. Can I book domestic tickets on Chinese airlines from abroad?
    Yes, of course. We offer both flight schedules and ticket booking services for customers locally and internationally.  ChinaSpringTour are proud to offer a service that is both economical and responsive.   Please feel free to contact our customer service department should you need further assistance or information that cannot be found on the website.
  11. Why are tickets on the same flight differently priced?
    ChinaSpringTour's re-route and refund policy, allows varying levels of flexibility depending on the needs of the customer.  For those not entirely sure of their schedule, booking services can be added to allow alterations at various stages in the booking process.

Tax and insurance

  1. Is tax included in the airfare? What is the tax that must be paid?
    Tax is included in your final quote and is paid alongside your ticket fee.  Tax includes Airport Construction Tax, fuel surcharge fees and Bunker Adjustment Factor.  Please note that these rates frequently change as they are subject to changes in the economic climate.
  2. What is 'Airport Construction Tax'?
    Airport Construction Tax is charged at RMB 50 per airport for flying within China.  For international flights, including flying to Hong Kong or Macau from mainland China, the fee is RMB 90.  Those departing from Hong Kong Airport pay HK$ 50.  All charges are payable at the time of purchase.
  3. What is the Bunker Adjustment Factor?
    Bunker adjustment factor or BAF refers to an adjustment in shipping charges to offset price fluctuations in the cost of bunker fuel.
    All domestic flights are subject to the following surcharges: RMB 80 will be charged for each passenger for flight routes less than 800 kilometers. RMB 150 will be charged for each passenger for flight routes that are 800 kilometers or more.
  4. Does the price shown on your website include all the taxes and fees?
    Yes. The airfare lists on our website includes the airport construction fee and the fuel surcharge. But the service charge is not included, as well as the insurance. The total accurate charge you need to pay will be calculated for you in our replied email.
  5. What is Aviation Accident Insurance? How much is it? Can I purchase it online?
    Aviation Accident Insurance is used to protect individuals as passengers or pilots on scheduled aircraft.
    Aviation Accident Insurance costs RMB 20 per person and provides coverage up to RMB 200,000.
    Passengers are not obliged to purchase Aviation Accident Insurance, though ChinaSpringTour recommend that you do. You can purchase it at the airport before check-in.
  6. Is air insurance included in the price of the fare?
    Air tickets booked with us do not include aviation accident insurance. Passengers can purchase the insurance at the airport before check-in.

Payment

  1. Methods of Payment
    ChinaSpringTour customers can book online though PayPal, or offline payment via cash, company check, wire transfer or credit card.  Bookings made within 48 hours of departure cannot be paid for via PayPal.
    PayPal
    Following initial booking, passengers are given 60 minutes to pay via paypal.  Bookings not paid for within that time period will be cancelled.
    If you are a PAYPAL member and familiar with the process, simply follow the usual steps. If you are not a member, instructions on how to sign up and use Paypal can be found on the website www.paypal.com. It is a convenient and secure way to make online payments.
    Sign up for PayPal and start accepting credit card payments instantly.
    Please note, electronic cheques can not be used for purchasing air tickets.
    Note: If either PayPal or China Spring Tour has reason to believe that the payment may be fraudulent, we reserve the right to put the reservation on hold and require another method of payment.
    Off-line payment
    Credit cards, wire transfer and cash payment can be used in payment to ChinaSpringTour. Travelers' check and company check are usable upon special request. Personal checks are not accepted.
    ChinaSpringTour's business hours:
    From Monday to Friday, 8:30~20:30
    Weekend: 8:30~17:30
    If you book air tickets during our business day, a ChinaSpringTour consultant will contact you within 60 minutes to confirm your booking and payment details.
    If you book air tickets out of work hours, a ChinaSpringTour consultant will contact you within 12 hours to confirm your booking and payment details.
    Once made, bookings remain valid until confirmation.
    If you have any questions about any part of this process, feel free to Contact us through the details below.
    Emergency contact
    Emergency telephone number:86-21-62515777 (International)
    By Phone
    ChinaSpringTour offers professional customer support via telephone on:
    400-820-6222 ext.2 (from within China)
    Tel: 86-21-62515777 (International)
    Fax: 86-21-52376977 (International)
    By Email
    cs@chinaspringtour.com
    By Skype
    Do you have Skype? Skype us on the internet.
    Skypeme
    By Post
    ChinaSpringTour of Spring International
    ChinaSpringTour: 6F No.118 Zhaohua Road, Shanghai, China 200050 上海长宁区昭化路118号6楼 (Map)
    Spring Headquarters: 1558 Dingxi Road, Shanghai, China 200050 上海长宁区定西路1558号
    Due to the complicated settlement procedures between banks, there is surcharge for those paying with international-based credit cards.  Please make yourself aware of surcharge amounts before paying.
  2. How can I assure that my online payment is secure?
    Firstly, ChinaSpringTour is a secure site. We assure that any information you submit will be strictly encrypted to protect you against unintentional information disclosure to third parties.
    Moreover, we suggest you make the payment through Paypal.  PayPal is a safe, easy way to pay online. The service allows anyone to payment through credit cards, bank accounts, buyer credit or account balances, without sharing financial information with the seller.
    It is widely acknowledged and celebrated market leader in online sale and payment technology.
  3. What is the best way to pay if I am purchasing from outside the People's Republic of China?
    You can pay via PayPal online. If you are a PayPal member and familiar with the process, simply follow the usual steps. If you are not a member, instructions on how to sign up and use PayPal can be found on the website www.paypal.com. It is a convenient and secure way to make online payments.
  4. Can I use my credit card? What credit cards do you accept?
    Yes, we accept all major credit cards issued inside and outside China for bookings.

Receiving tickets

  1. What is an e-ticket
    An Electronic ticket is a document that is transferred to customers in place of an old-style paper ticket.  The e-ticket contains an identification number that can be supplied at the check-in desk along with your passport in place of a traditional ticket document. This service is offered by all airlines in China.
  2. Are all airline tickets now issued in the form of an e-ticket?
    No.  Infants are still issued with a paper ticket.
  3. How can I get access to my itinerary?
    After tickets have been issued, an electronic itinerary can be downloaded from the booking management section of your registered account on ChinaSpringTour.com.
    ChinaSpringTour recommends travelers register online as members of our website. However, it is also possible for non-account holders to check their booking online.
  4. After finalizing my booking, and downloading my itinerary, how do I get my receipt?
    Receipts can be printed out at the airport check-in counter.  It is not possible for us to deliver receipts to you prior to check-in.

Cancellation and refund

  1. How can I cancel my flight booking?
    Tickets can be cancelled online before tickets are issued.  After issuing, it is necessary to cancel via our customer service department.  A surcharge is also payable for canceling after issuing.
  2. What is the flight cancellation policy in China?
    Cancellation fee can be anything between 10%~100% of total airfare (including credit card transaction fees).  The cancellation fee varies depending on the terms under which you bought the ticket.  In general terms - the higher the price of the ticket, the lower the cancellation fee.
    In most instances, cancellation fee is 10% of the total airfare if you cancel 24 hours before departure time.  Cancellation fee is 20% of total airfare if you cancel flight between 2 and 24 hours of departure time.  Cancellation fee is 30% of total airfare if you cancel flight 2 hours before departure time. If you cancel flight after the stated departure time, there is no refund.
    Please contact airlines directly for more accurate and detailed information about cancellation policy.
  3. What should I do if my flight is cancelled or changed by the airlines?
    We will inform you any change or cancellation made by the airlines in time.  Please ensure that you check your email account frequently in the run up to departure. In the case of an emergency, please provide us a phone number through which we can reach you.
    Each airline has its own policy regarding disruptions.  If you would like to change to another flight or postpone your departure date, please Contact us immediately
    Please call us at 400-820-6222 ext.2 (from within China) +86-21-62515777 (International).
    Contact your airline for more information on their flight cancellation policy.
  4. How should I cancel or change my order?
    Contact our customer service at cs@chinaspringtour.com or call at
    400-820-6222 ext.2 (from within China)
    +86-21-62515777 (International)
  5. How much will it cost to change or cancel my airline ticket?
    For most flight-only reservations, you can use the cancellation calculator and see the refund or approximate credit you will receive if you decide to change or cancel your reservation.
  6. How will receive my refund in the case of a cancellation?
    The method with which you are refunded will accord with the method in which you paid.   Any charges will be the responsibility of the customer.

Check in and boarding

  1. Do I need to re-confirm the flight information?
    There is no need to re-confirm the flight information at check-in.
    If there are any changes before your departure due to the bad weather or some other reason, we will inform you as soon as possible. Please ensure that you check your email account frequently in the run up to departure.
  2. How far in advance of departure should I reach the airport?
    Most of the airlines stop check in procedures 45 minutes before departure.  We advise passengers to reach the airport at least 90 minutes prior to departure.
  3. How do I check in with an e-ticket?
    Bring your passport, or another valid ID, to the designated counter at the airport. Please make sure the passenger information provided matches the passport or ID that will be shown during check-in. After the passenger is identified by the airline, the staff at service counter will print out the boarding pass and baggage tags.
  4. Where can I get a receipt for my airline ticket?
    You can print out the receipt at the designated counter in the airport.
  5. Do I need to bring my electronic itinerary?
    Passengers only need to present a valid ID or passport to check in at the airport.  Additional documentation is not required.
  6. What is the restriction of airport security check?
    In order to better safeguard the safety of passengers' life and property, the General Administration of Civil Aviation of China (CAAC) enforces the following guidelines:
    1. All passengers on domestic flights are prohibited from carrying liquids, gels and aerosols with them and luggage, where they could be transported as checked luggage. And packaging of luggage must be in compliance with relevant air transport rules and regulations.
    2. Passengers are allowed to carry with them small amount of cosmetics for self-use on domestic flights. Only one piece of each type is allowed and the capacity of the container must not exceed 100 ml. Cosmetics shall be placed in separate bags and are subject to security checks.
    3. Passengers who need to connect from non-domestic flights to domestic flights at airports in Mainland China shall have their duty-free luggages placed in sealed, transparent and security tamper-evident plastic bags and shall produce receipts of the purchased luggages as required. Such luggages are not allowed to be carried on board unless they pass security checks.
    4. Passengers accompanied by infants should take powdered milk, instead of fluid milk products. Necessary fluid medicine of diabetic patients or other patients should pass the security check and must be kept in the charge of the flight attendants if it is considered safety.
    5. All passengers are forbidden to carry the lighter and matches in check-in luggage and carry- on luggage to airplane for the sake of safety.
    Passengers shall bear responsibilities themselves in case of any consequences caused by their violation and regional of the above regulations.
    In order to safeguard your safety, both your carry-on and checked luggage must be X-rayed, and passengers are required to walk through a metal detector gate.

Luggage allowance

  1. What is the luggage allowance for domestic flights within China?
    Any passenger holding a first class adult ticket or a half-price ticket is entitled to bear the luggage of 40 kg (about 88 pounds) free of charge (checked and carry-on luggage).  Any passenger holding a business class adult ticket or a half-price ticket is entitled to bear the luggage of 30 kg (about 66 pounds) free of charge (checked and carry-on luggage).  Any passenger holding an economy class adult ticket or a half-price ticket is entitled to bear the luggage of 20 kg (about 44 pounds) free of charge (checked and carry-on luggage).   There is no luggage allowance for people who hold infant tickets.
  2. What is the carry-on luggage allowance for China domestic flights?
    Each first-class passenger is entitled to have two pieces of carry-on luggage.  Each business-class and economy-class passenger is entitled to have one piece of carry-on luggage.  The size of each piece of carry-on luggage should be smaller than 20 X 40 X 55 centimeter (7.8 X 15.7 X 21.6 inches) and its total weight should be less than 5 kg (11 pounds). Pieces larger than this should be checked together with your other luggage.  For luggage in excess of the free luggage allowance in piece, or the sum of the length, width and height of each piece exceeding the prescribed limits, an excess luggage charge should be paid.  We recommend that each passenger travel with only one suitcase and one carry-on bag. Excessive number, size, or weight of luggage may result in your inconvenience and/or additional surcharge.
  3. What is the baggage regulations when flying inside China?
    1) Passengers are not allowed to carry liquids onboard the aircraft, but they can be included with checked baggage.  One item of cosmetics is allowed provided it is not in excess of 100 ml.  It must be put into a separate package after security inspection.
    2) Lighters and matches can not be included in carry-on baggage.
    3) The following items are prohibited and cannot be carried in checked or carry on luggage: flammable, explosive, corrosive, poisonous, radioactive, polymerizable and magnetized materials.  Passengers are forbidden to carry firearms, sharp or potentially lethal items in the cabin during transit.  These items will be confiscated by security if detected.
    4) The maximum carry-on baggage allowance for each economy class passenger is only one piece of 5kg, and passenger traveling first-class is allowed 2 separate articles of 5kg each.  Pieces should be no larger than 20x40x 55cm.  Carry on baggage in excess of the limit is subject to the excess baggage fee and must be carried as checked baggage. Adults and children are entitled to a checked baggage allowance of 20kg regardless of the number of pieces. Each piece should be within 40x60x 100cm.  No free baggage allowance is granted to infants.
  4. What are the limits and restrictions on checked baggage on airlines?
    Airlines rules for checked-baggage allowances vary.  Many carriers allow passengers one or two checked bags and one carry-on, while a few airlines allow three checked bags and no carry-on.  If you have any doubts please contact the airline directly.
  5. Can more than one passenger combine their luggage allowance?
    Passengers traveling in groups of 3 or more to the same destination, or those tour groups traveling to the same place, can all combine their luggage allowance.
  6. What should I do if my luggage is overweight?
    Passengers pay for overweight baggage at a rate of 1.5% of the total fare per 1 kg over weight.
  7. Are there any restrictions on carrying specialized equipment in my checked luggage?
    Yes. Carrying musical instruments and some sport equipment may incur additional costs. Please direct any questions regarding additional luggage costs to our customer service staff.

Children and infants

  1. What are the age limits for children and infants?
    Children's rates are open to those between 2 and 12 years old at the time of traveling (includes two year olds).
    Infants are those under the age of two years at the time of traveling.
    Infants younger than 14 weeks are not permitted to fly.
  2. How do I book tickets for children or infants online?
    After booking an adult ticket online, there is an option for adding a child or infant to your booking.  Please note that it is not possible for a child or infant to fly unaccompanied.  Valid birth certificates are required for those wishing to book tickets for children or infants.
  3. Can children or infants fly on airplanes unaccompanied?
    According to the regulations of the Administration of Civil Aviation of China (CAAC), children under 12 years old should be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or above. Children between 5 to 12 years old are able to apply for unaccompanied service, though further documentation is required.
    Infants can not fly alone.
  4. Are there any discounts for infant or child tickets?
    Yes. Many airline companies offer discounted airfares for infants and children. Normally, children between 2 and 12 years old at time of traveling fly for 50% of the full price, while infants between 0 and 2 years old at the time of traveling are charged at just 10% of the full price.
  5. Do children and infants need to pay fuel surcharges and Airport Construction Tax?
    For domestic flights, the Fuel Surcharge for a child aged between 2 and 12 years old is 50% of an adult's charge. Infant's tickets are exempt from fuel surcharges.  Neither children nor infants are required to pay Airport Construction Tax.
  6. Do infants require their own e-ticket?
    No.  We advise passengers to buy their infant tickets at the airport, as infants (0-2 years) are not allocated seats. 
  7. What is the luggage allowance for children and infants?
    Children holding a first class ticket are entitled to bear luggage of 40 kg (about 88 pounds) free of charge (checked and carry-on luggage).  Children holding a business class ticket are entitled to bear luggage of 30 kg (about 66 pounds) free of charge (checked and carry-on luggage).  Children holding an economy class adult ticket or a half-price ticket are entitled to bear luggage of 20 kg (about 44 pounds) free of charge (checked and carry-on luggage).
    Infant tickets are not entitled to any luggage allowance.

Additional

  1. What are the service hours for ChinaSpringTour?
    ChinaSpringTour booking service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our customer service department is available from 9:00am to 8:30 pm, Monday - Friday, and 9:00am to 5:30pm on Saturdays.
  2. Are there any special requirements for flying to Tibet?
    Yes. A Travel Permit is required by the Tibet Tourism Bureau to visit Lhasa and surrounding cities. If you book a flight to Tibet, please ensure that you have applied for a Travel Permit and have sufficient time to collect it.
  3. Can pregnant women fly on airplanes?
    It is safe for pregnant women to fly.  There are no restrictions on pregnant women up to their 7th month of pregnancy.  However, for their safety, pregnant women in the 8th month of pregnancy or later are advised not to fly.  If absolutely necessary, 2 copies of a signed permission letter from a doctor together with an application form must be submitted to the airline.  The doctor's letter should include the passenger's name, age, pregnancy date, Expected Date of Confinement (EDC), journey date, and information on special care needs.  Women in their 8th month of pregnancy or above can only board after receiving airline approval.
  4. Are seriously ill but not contagious patients allowed to fly?
    Yes, but the patients must show written permission from a doctor upon purchasing their tickets.
  5. Are there any special rules for the elderly aged 70 or above?
    Those aged 70 and above must have special permission from a hospital if they are to fly.
    Passengers who do not suffer from cardiovascular disease (such as hypertension, heart disease) can travel by plane without concern.  Those who do suffer from any of the above cardiovascular diseases should exercise caution when making travel plans.
  6. Can I travel with a pet?
    Some airlines will allow passengers to take pets on board or as unaccompanied baggage. We encourage you to call the airline directly to find out more details. Rules may vary according to the size, age, and breed of your pet. Health certificates and other documentation may also be required. Please apply to the airline at least 3 days before your flight and follow the indicated procedures. For the health and safety of your pet, we advise you to visit a trusted veterinarian to assess if your pet is fit for air travel.
    The administration of Civil Aviation of China (CAAC ) advises that pets are not allowed to be transported in the cabin.  Passengers seeking to carry a pet aboard an airliner must produce proof of quarantine, and make prior arrangements with the airline independently.
  7. Can I book specific food online if I have special dietary requirements?
    Yes.  Please submit your request when booking your flight.  We will endeavor to meet all your demands.
  8. How do disabled passengers request special assistance during the booking process?
    You may enter your request for special assistance on the passenger information table when making your booking.
    We strongly suggest that you contact our customer service team or the airline directly after completing your reservation to ensure the airline is able to accommodate your needs at the time of travelling.
  9. How should we prepare for changeover flights?
    Passengers who need changeover during their flights do not need to collect their luggage prior to the final arrival.  Those with any special requirements regarding changeover flights should contact the airline.

Call us!
0086-021-6251 5777(international)
400-820-6222 ext.2 (from within China)
Email us!
cs@chinaspringtour.com
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