Top Airlines in China: Rankings and Alliances Explained

When planning a trip to China, understanding the country's airline landscape can save you time, money, and hassle. With the world’s second-largest aviation market, China offers a mix of global carriers and regional specialists. This guide ranks the top Chinese airlines, explains their alliances, and gives you practical travel advice for a smooth journey.

The Big Three: China’s Major Full-Service Airlines

China’s aviation industry is dominated by three major state-owned carriers. They connect virtually every major Chinese city and operate extensive international networks.

1. China Southern Airlines

• Alliance: SkyTeam
• Hub: Guangzhou (CAN) and Beijing Daxing (PKX)
• Strengths: Largest fleet in Asia, extensive domestic network, and a strong presence in Southeast Asia and Australia.
• Travel Tip: If you are flying into Guangzhou or Shenzhen, China Southern is often the most convenient choice. Their business class on long-haul routes offers competitive comfort compared to European carriers.

2. China Eastern Airlines

• Alliance: SkyTeam
• Hub: Shanghai Pudong (PVG) and Shanghai Hongqiao (SHA)
• Strengths: Excellent connectivity for Shanghai and eastern China. A popular choice for travelers flying to Japan, Korea, or the United States.
• Travel Tip: Use China Eastern for flights connecting through Shanghai. Their premium economy product is a solid mid-range option.

3. Air China

• Alliance: Star Alliance
• Hub: Beijing Capital (PEK) and Beijing Daxing (PKX)
• Strengths: Flagship carrier with the most direct flights to Europe and North America from Beijing. Partners with United Airlines, Lufthansa, and All Nippon Airways.
• Travel Tip: Ideal for travelers using Star Alliance frequent flyer miles. If you fly into Beijing and continue to smaller cities, Air China offers the widest network from the capital.

Regional and Specialized Airlines

Beyond the big three, several carriers cater to specific regions or travel styles.

Hainan Airlines

• Alliance: Independent (but codeshares with many carriers)
• Hub: Haikou (HAK) and Beijing (PEK)
• Strengths: Consistently rated among the world’s best airlines for service. Known for direct routes to cities like Boston, Chicago, and Berlin.
• Travel Tip: If you are flying directly from a secondary US or European city to China, Hainan Airlines often offers competitive fares with excellent in-flight service.

Sichuan Airlines

• Alliance: Independent
• Hub: Chengdu (CTU) and Chengdu Tianfu (TFU)
• Strengths: Strong network in western China, including Tibet and Yunnan. Known for spicy Sichuan-style meals.
• Travel Tip: Great for travelers exploring Sichuan, Yunnan, or Tibet. Their service to Lhasa (Tibet) is reliable.

Xiamen Airlines

• Alliance: SkyTeam
• Hub: Xiamen (XMN)
• Strengths: A smaller but well-regarded carrier with good connections to Southeast Asia and Taiwan.
• Travel Tip: Useful for travelers visiting Fujian province or connecting to Taiwan from mainland China.

Juneyao Air

• Alliance: Star Alliance (Connecting Partner)
• Hub: Shanghai Pudong (PVG)
• Strengths: A private carrier with a modern fleet. Offers better legroom and service than typical budget airlines.
• Travel Tip: Good value for domestic flights within eastern China. Their flights from Shanghai to Tokyo or Bangkok are competitive.

Low-Cost Carriers in China

For budget-conscious travelers, Chinese low-cost carriers (LCCs) offer a way to save money. However, be aware of strict baggage policies and add-on fees.

• Spring Airlines: China’s largest LCC. Covers many secondary cities.
• 9 Air: A Guangzhou-based LCC with a “buy what you use” pricing model.
• West Air: Focuses on Chongqing and western China routes.

Practical Advice: Always check baggage allowance when booking a Chinese LCC. Many have strict 7 kg (15 lb) carry-on limits and charge heavily for checked luggage.

Airline Alliances: How They Help International Travelers

Understanding alliances can help you earn miles, access lounges, and enjoy smoother connections.

Travel Tip: If you are a Star Alliance Gold member (e.g., United 1K, Lufthansa Senator), you get priority check-in and lounge access on Air China and Juneyao Air flights. Similarly, SkyTeam Elite Plus members enjoy benefits on China Southern and China Eastern.

Practical Travel Advice for Flying in China

Booking Your Flights

• Use Chinese OTA Apps: Platforms like Ctrip (Trip.com for English) offer better domestic fares than international booking sites.
• Book Early for Peak Seasons: Chinese holidays like Chinese New Year (January/February) and National Day (October 1–7) see massive domestic demand. Book at least 2–3 months ahead.
• Check Visa Requirements: If flying domestically, always carry your passport and China visa (or valid residence permit). Chinese ID cards are not accepted for foreigners.

Airport Tips

• Arrive Early: Chinese airports are large and security can be thorough. Arrive 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights.
• Download a Translation App: Airport announcements are often in Mandarin only. Apps like Google Translate (with offline packs) or Baidu Translate help.
• Prepare for Security: Remove laptops, tablets, power banks, and liquids from your bag. Power banks must be carried in hand luggage, never in checked baggage.

Baggage and Comfort

• Weight Limits: Domestic economy tickets often allow only 20 kg (44 lbs) checked baggage. Premium cabins offer more.
• Bring Your Own Snacks: While full-service airlines serve meals, budget carriers may not. Also, consider buying a basic meal at the airport if your flight is long.
• Download Entertainment: Many Chinese airlines have limited English movie selections. Download your own shows or movies before departure.

FAQ: Flying in China

Q: Do I need to show my passport when booking a domestic flight? A: Yes. You must enter your passport number exactly as it appears on your passport. Any mismatch can cause boarding denial.

Q: Can I use my phone during the flight? A: Yes, most Chinese airlines allow smartphones in airplane mode. Some offer onboard Wi-Fi at a fee.

Q: Are there smoking areas on Chinese airlines? A: No. Smoking is strictly banned on all Chinese flights, including e-cigarettes. Violations can lead to fines or legal trouble.

Q: Can I bring my own alcohol on board? A: No. You cannot consume your own alcohol on Chinese flights. Alcohol is served by cabin crew only.

Q: What if my flight is delayed? A: For delays over 2 hours, airlines usually provide meals. For overnight delays, they arrange hotels. Compensation is minimal, so travel insurance is recommended.

Conclusion

Choosing the right airline in China depends on your itinerary, budget, and loyalty programs. For international travelers, the big three (Air China, China Southern, China Eastern) offer reliable service and global partnerships. If you are exploring specific regions like Yunnan or Tibet, consider Sichuan Airlines or Xiamen Airlines. Budget travelers can save money with Spring Airlines, but always double-check baggage rules.

No matter which airline you choose, preparation is key. Book early, bring your passport, and download helpful travel apps. With the right airline and a smooth flight, your journey through China will be off to a great start.

Safe travels!