Air China runs a pretty basic student discount programme which only goes as far as to give students an additional piece of luggage.
While this is nothing new, other airlines also have set out student programs of different complexities and benefits.
About Air China Student Programme
The program seems limited to and from China only to select locations. From my research, I could only find the promotion link for two city pairs: The UK to China as well Stockholm to China.
All the links seem to be buried on the site and the only way to get hold of them is to have the exact URL. The promotions refresh every single year so a new link is always needed.
That said, reading the fine print it would seem the countries targeted are the UK, Germany, France, and Stockholm – which is really limiting when you consider what other airlines are offering.
It is important to remember two things:
- Bookings can only be made on the promotional page;
- Air China service agent will verify passengers ‘student status’ during check-in. Although there is no word on what this is.
If done correctly your ticket should be marked with an “STU” demarcation after your name – according to the carrier’s FAQ anyway. The STU is meant to denote an overseas student ticket.
What’s On Offer?
Not much, unfortunately.
Students who purchase economy class tickets can avail themselves of an extra free piece of checked baggage.
This is a weaker proposition compared to other carriers in the market. For example, British Airways will offer the same but also allow for travel in Premium Economy and Cathay Pacific allows for free seat selection and parent and student discounts on travel.
Conclusion
While it does have a benefit (I mean something is better than nothing) It is unfortunate that Air China has chosen only to target a specific market instead of opening the promotion up to the carrier’s entire network.
That said, other carriers operating in its space have a far greater value proposition which is surprising that Air China has not increased its proposition to make it competitive in the market – a norm for the airline industry.
