SA(SH:601021) 3 6 Ke·2025-09-15 04:49Core Viewpoint - Spring Airlines has emerged as the most profitable airline in China for the first half of 2025, despite a decline in net profit, while major airlines like Air China, China Eastern, and China Southern continue to report significant losses [1][2]. Financial Performance - In the first half of 2025, Spring Airlines reported revenue of 10.304 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 4.35%, and a net profit of 1.169 billion yuan, a decrease of 14.11% [1]. - Air China, China Eastern, and China Southern reported losses of 1.806 billion yuan, 1.431 billion yuan, and 1.533 billion yuan respectively, with Air China and China Southern experiencing losses for three consecutive quarters and China Eastern for 22 consecutive quarters [1]. Market Reaction - Despite being the most profitable airline, Spring Airlines' stock price fell after the earnings report, declining from 56.83 yuan at the beginning of the year to 53.32 yuan by September 10, 2025, a drop of 6.2% [1]. - In contrast, Air China's stock price increased by 2% following its earnings report, while China Southern also saw a slight rise [1]. Cost Structure and Strategy - Spring Airlines employs a low-cost model, focusing solely on economy class, which allows for a higher seat capacity compared to competitors that offer multiple classes [6][8]. - The airline's cost control is evident, with sales and management expenses significantly lower than those of major competitors, at 1.248 billion yuan and 1.485 billion yuan for the first half of 2025 [7][6]. - Spring Airlines has a high passenger load factor of 90.6% in Q1 2025, compared to 78.5%, 79.1%, and 80.3% for Air China, China Eastern, and China Southern respectively [3]. Pricing Strategy - The airline's pricing strategy includes extremely low ticket prices, with fares as low as 9 yuan, which has contributed to its high load factor [3]. - Spring Airlines has reduced ticket prices by 5%, the lowest among major airlines, while competitors saw declines of 9%, 11%, and 8% [3]. Ancillary Revenue - Spring Airlines generates additional revenue through ancillary services, such as charging for meals and baggage, which has become a significant part of its income [24]. - In 2024, ancillary services contributed 1.03 billion yuan to Spring Airlines' revenue, marking a 14.4% increase year-on-year [24]. Competitive Positioning - The airline's unique operational strategies, such as high proportions of red-eye flights and direct sales channels, have allowed it to maintain a competitive edge in a challenging market [8][24]. - Spring Airlines' business model aligns with current consumer trends, focusing on cost-effectiveness and catering to price-sensitive customers [21][25].