The information desk for Shenzhen-Hangzhou transfers at Hangzhou International Airport's T3 terminal. [Photo/Hangzhou International Airport]

The Hangzhou-Shenzhen air route has upgraded its cross-airline voluntary transfer service, allowing passengers with eligible tickets to switch flights across airlines regardless of fare class starting July 15.

Launched by Hangzhou International Airport, Shenzhen Baoan International Airport and nine airlines, the service removes the previous restriction requiring tickets to be in six-discount-or-higher fare classes, offering greater flexibility for passengers on one of China's busiest domestic routes.

The service, piloted in April, is the country's first to enable transfers across airlines, terminals and ground agents, with airport services connected both inside and outside security zones.

The program covers nine airlines operating the route, namely Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, Hainan Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, XiamenAir, Loong Air, Capital Airlines and Suparna Airlines. Eligible passengers can apply for a transfer before departure, with first-time changes exempt from service fees.

Passengers can complete the process at designated transfer counters in Hangzhou International Airport's T3 and T4 terminals. Those who have already passed through security can make changes without leaving the secured area, undergoing another security check or rechecking luggage.

The check-in counters for the Shenzhen-Hangzhou air route at Hangzhou International Airport. [Photo/Hangzhou International Airport]