China's Spring Airlines evolves into a hybrid carrier as it targets a Japanese operating base

China's leading low-cost carrier, Spring Airlines, has been keeping a close watch on global LCC trends - and even hybridising its model in pursuit of higher yields. Spring has extended its new SpringPlus mini-cabin to over a dozen routes and has launched SpringPass, a comprehensive frequent flyer programme.

Spring continues to pursue the creation of a Japanese operating base. Although Japan this year will be inundated with new LCCs - including Peach, Jetstar Japan and AirAsia Japan - the region remains under-served, and Spring may gain more favourable Chinese government approval expanding in Japan rather than the domestic mainland China market, rife with government-owned airlines. As Spring builds further awareness, and hopes to launch services to Bangkok, it is also considering a re-branding.