However, most of the companies still have to sort out several issues before taking the LCC route for growth, he said.

The profit is not just dependent on cost but also on the load factor, Li said, adding that low-cost carriers need higher load factors than usual, as their ticket prices are low.

The carriers have to try their best to attract enough passengers to fill every flight, he said, and that is why Spring Airlines, the largest budget carrier in China, launches promotional events frequently.

Passengers' acceptance and government policy also play a major role in the profitable operations of budget carriers, industry sources said.

Though a low-cost airline, West Air still provides some additional services, such as free in-flight meals and free luggage check-in, because passengers are used to such services, said Cen Jianjun, vice-president of West Air.

Current regulations also do not provide enough room for carriers to cut costs on aircraft and other material purchases, fuel charges and other fees.

"Low-cost carriers still have a long way to go in China, but they will certainly take off," said Wang.

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