Air travelers from Beijing to Shanghai should be happy to know that they can get cheaper air-tickets, thanks to a series of price wars.

Since Yoee (www.yoee.com), an online air ticket service agent, and Hainan Airlines, began offering business commuter air tickets from Beijing to Shanghai early this month, other air-carriers have offered up to 70 percent off on air tickets for the route, bringing the price down to 340 yuan (US$41).

The commuter air tickets, with 60 percent discounts, are proving very popular with business people. "Our 80 commuter air tickets were booked up as soon as they hit the market, and many business people regret missing them," said a spokesman with Yoee.

To fight back, Air China, China Eastern Airlines and Shanghai Airlines have sparked price wars on the route, with their airfares even cheaper than train tickets. However, as yet only 20 percent discounts are being offered on air tickets from Shanghai to Beijing.

"The commuter ticket prices are set based on market rules," said the spokesman, dispelling the suggestion that such tickets are an unfair competition.

They will offer more discount tickets next month, but will still restrict the total number, he pointed out.

(Shanghai Daily June 23, 2005)