Complete Guide to China Airlines: Rankings and Alliances

When planning a trip to China, understanding the airline landscape is essential for international travelers. China has one of the world’s most extensive and fastest-growing aviation networks, connecting hundreds of domestic and international destinations. This guide breaks down the major Chinese airlines, their rankings, alliances, and what they mean for your travel experience—whether you're flying to Beijing, Shanghai, or further afield to regions like Tibet.

Major Chinese Airlines and Their Global Alliances

China’s three largest state-owned carriers dominate the market. Each belongs to one of the three major global airline alliances, which offer benefits such as shared frequent flyer programs, lounge access, and smoother connections.

Air China (Star Alliance)

Air China is the flag carrier of the People’s Republic of China and a founding member of the Star Alliance. It operates from its primary hubs in Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX).

• Strengths: Extensive domestic network, particularly strong routes to western China including Lhasa in Tibet, Chengdu, and Urumqi. Air China is often the preferred choice for travelers heading to high-altitude destinations due to its experience with those routes.
• Alliance benefits: Star Alliance members such as United Airlines, Lufthansa, and Singapore Airlines offer reciprocal mileage earning and lounge access.
• International reach: Flies to over 130 international destinations, including major cities in North America, Europe, Oceania, and Asia.

China Eastern Airlines (SkyTeam)

China Eastern Airlines is based in Shanghai and is a member of the SkyTeam alliance. Its main hubs are Shanghai Pudong (PVG) and Shanghai Hongqiao (SHA), with secondary hubs in Kunming and Xi’an.

• Strengths: Excellent connectivity for travelers visiting Yunnan Province, as Kunming is a key hub. Also strong on routes to Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia.
• Alliance benefits: SkyTeam members like Delta Air Lines, Air France, and Korean Air provide seamless connections.
• International reach: Serves over 200 destinations worldwide, with a strong presence in Asia-Pacific.

China Southern Airlines (SkyTeam)

China Southern Airlines is the largest airline in China by fleet size and passenger volume. It is a member of the SkyTeam alliance, with its main hub in Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN).

• Strengths: Dominant in southern China, with excellent connections to Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. It also operates many domestic routes to popular tourist destinations like Guilin, Sanya, and Chengdu.
• Alliance benefits: Same as China Eastern, with reciprocal perks through SkyTeam.
• International reach: Flies to over 200 destinations globally, including key cities in North America and Europe.

Other Notable Chinese Airlines

Hainan Airlines

Hainan Airlines is the largest privately-owned airline in China. While it is not a member of a global alliance, it has codeshare agreements with many international carriers and is known for its strong service quality and modern fleet.

• Strengths: Rated as a 5-star airline by Skytrax for several years. Hainan offers direct flights from many Chinese cities to international destinations, including routes to Seattle, Los Angeles, and Toronto.
• Domestic network: Strong in Hainan Province (Sanya, Haikou) and across major Chinese cities.

Shenzhen Airlines (Star Alliance)

Shenzhen Airlines is a subsidiary of Air China and a member of the Star Alliance. It operates from its hub in Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX).

• Strengths: Ideal for travelers visiting Shenzhen and the Pearl River Delta region, with good connections to Southeast Asia.

Xiamen Airlines (SkyTeam)

Xiamen Airlines is a member of SkyTeam, with its hub in Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN). It is known for its reliable service and routes to Taiwan and Southeast Asia.

Sichuan Airlines

Sichuan Airlines is based in Chengdu and is known for its extensive network within western China. It is not part of a major global alliance but has codeshare agreements with Air China and other carriers.

• Strengths: Excellent for travelers heading to Tibet, Sichuan, and Yunnan, including routes to Lhasa, Jiuzhaigou, and Kunming.

Ranking and Service Quality

Chinese airlines have improved dramatically in recent years. According to Skytrax rankings, Hainan Airlines consistently ranks among the world’s top 10 airlines for service and comfort. Air China, China Eastern, and China Southern are typically rated as 4-star airlines, offering good service with modern aircraft on most routes.

Tips for International Travelers

• Book domestic flights early: During Chinese holidays like Chinese New Year and National Day (October 1), domestic tickets sell out quickly.
• Check baggage allowances: International flights on Chinese carriers often include 2 pieces of checked baggage, but domestic flights may have stricter limits.
• Use alliance partnerships: If you have frequent flyer status with a Star Alliance or SkyTeam member, you can earn miles on Chinese carriers.
• Consider connecting flights: For destinations like Tibet (Lhasa), many international travelers fly via Chengdu or Xi’an on Air China or Sichuan Airlines.

Practical Travel Advice for Flying in China

Booking and Check-In

• Most Chinese airlines offer online check-in 24–48 hours before departure. However, for domestic flights, you may still need to visit the counter to get a paper ticket.
• Use official airline websites or reputable third-party platforms to book. Avoid unofficial agents for safety.
• If you need assistance with itinerary planning or booking tours that include air travel, consider contacting a trusted China travel service for guidance.

At the Airport

• Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights. Security lines can be long at major hubs.
• Liquids, gels, and aerosols are restricted in carry-on luggage. Check current regulations before packing.
• Download useful apps like WeChat or Alipay for mobile payments, as many airport services accept them.

In-Flight Experience

• Most Chinese airlines provide meals on flights over 2 hours, with Western and Chinese options available on international routes.
• Entertainment systems on domestic flights may have limited English content. Bring your own entertainment.
• Cabin crew on international flights generally speak English well, but domestic crew may have limited English skills.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which Chinese airline is best for traveling to Tibet? A: Air China and Sichuan Airlines are the most reliable for flights to Lhasa and other Tibetan destinations. They operate from Chengdu, Xi’an, and other cities.

Q: Are Chinese airlines safe? A: Yes. All major Chinese airlines have strong safety records and meet international aviation standards. They are regularly audited by global organizations.

Q: Can I use my frequent flyer miles on Chinese airlines? A: Yes, if you are a member of the same alliance. For example, Star Alliance miles can be used on Air China, and SkyTeam miles on China Eastern and China Southern.

Q: Do I need a visa for connecting flights in China? A: Yes, if you are entering mainland China, you generally need a visa. Some airports offer 24- or 72-hour transit without visa policies for certain nationalities, but check current regulations before travel.

Q: How do I book tours that include flights within China? A: Many travel agencies offer packages that combine domestic flights with guided tours. Look for reputable operators specializing in China travel, such as those offering private or small group tours.

Conclusion

Flying in China is efficient, safe, and increasingly traveler-friendly. Understanding the major airlines and their alliances helps you make informed choices, earn loyalty points, and enjoy smoother connections. Whether you are exploring the bustling cities of the east coast, the cultural treasures of Xi’an, or the high-altitude landscapes of Tibet, the right airline can enhance your journey. For personalized travel planning and tour arrangements, consider reaching out to a professional China travel service that can handle all your domestic flight and itinerary needs.