JETSTAR launched its four-times-weekly service to Hangzhou yesterday, becoming the first carrier to offer direct flights between Singapore and the Chinese city south of Shanghai.

Flights using an Airbus A320 depart from Singapore every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday.

This brings the airline's Greater China network to seven destinations, including four to the mainland. It also flies to Guilin, Haikou, Shantou, Hong Kong, Macau and Taipei.

CEO Chong Phit Lian said: “Jetstar’s strategy for China has consistently been to create new direct-from-Singapore flights to Chinese cities that have high tourism potential.”

Aside from the new flight connection, Jetstar has also teamed up with a ground partner to provide a two-way bus service between Hangzhou International Airport and Shanghai Huangpu bus station.