Air China, established in 1988, is the flag carrier airline of the People's Republic of China. Emerging from the division of the former CAAC airline, Air China is headquartered in Beijing Shunyi. Its main hubs include Beijing and Chengdu, and as a member of the Star Alliance, it has expanded its global network. The airline boasts a large fleet of 669 aircraft, including various models such as Airbus A319, A320, A321, A330, A350, and Boeing 737, 747, 777, 787. Additionally, domestic aircraft like COMAC ARJ21 and C919 are part of the fleet.
Air China actively operates approximately 532 aircraft, offering a wide destination network on both domestic and international routes with narrow-body and wide-body aircraft. It particularly conducts long-haul flights with its 130 wide-body aircraft (A330, A350, B747, B777, B787). As a full-service carrier, it provides premium classes, extensive dining options, and cargo services. The airline, which carries hundreds of millions of passengers annually, operates flights to continents such as Asia, Europe, and North America.
Air China is noted for its modern fleet and continuously renews it with orders for aircraft like the Airbus A350-900 and Boeing B787-9 for fuel-efficient long-haul flights. As one of China's largest airlines, with the majority stake held by the state, it aims to offer a comfortable travel experience to its passengers.
Air China has a global airline network and operates flights to over 180 destinations. As the flag carrier of the People's Republic of China, it has an extensive domestic network, offering flights from major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu to various parts of the country. Internationally, Air China provides a comprehensive service network with flights to continents such as Asia, Europe, North America, and Australia.
Among its most popular international routes are flights from Beijing to major metropolises like London, New York, Tokyo, and Sydney. Air China's main hubs, Beijing and Chengdu, offer passengers extensive transfer opportunities, allowing easy access to many points worldwide. As a member of the Star Alliance, Air China has codeshare agreements with major airlines like Lufthansa and United Airlines, providing passengers with more options and flexibility.
Air China also introduces some seasonal routes to meet demand during holiday periods, offering additional flights to enrich the travel experience for both business and leisure travelers.
Air China - Baggage Policy
Hand Baggage / Cabin Baggage: When traveling with Air China, Economy Class passengers are allowed one piece of hand baggage weighing 5 kg with dimensions of 55x40x20 cm. First and Business Class passengers can carry two pieces of hand baggage weighing a total of 8 kg with the same dimensions. Additionally, each passenger is allowed one personal item that fits under the seat.Checked Baggage: For domestic flights, Economy Class passengers can carry 20 kg, Business Class passengers 30 kg, and First Class passengers 40 kg of baggage. For international flights, Economy Class passengers typically have an allowance of one or two pieces weighing 23 kg each, while Business and First Class passengers have an allowance of two pieces weighing 32 kg each. For additional baggage needs, extra baggage can be purchased at a per kg rate for domestic flights or based on route pricing for international flights.Special Baggage: Air China charges a special fee for sports equipment (skiing, golf, cycling), which is usually transported as checked baggage. You can transport this equipment for an additional fee of approximately 50-100 USD. Musical instruments can be carried as either cabin or checked baggage, but they must be in a protective case and not exceed 32 kg. Baby strollers can be transported for free as a piece weighing up to 23 kg.
Air China - Check-in & Seat Selection
Check-in Options: When traveling with Air China, the check-in process is quite flexible and user-friendly. Online check-in starts 48 hours before the flight via the Air China mobile app and ends 90 minutes before departure. This allows you to complete your procedures comfortably before your trip. By obtaining your mobile boarding pass with a QR code via the mobile app, you can save time at the airport. At the airport, kiosk self-check-in is a practical option for passengers without baggage. Counter check-in procedures can be completed up to 90 minutes before departure for international flights and 60 minutes for domestic flights. During this process, you can obtain your printed boarding pass.Seat Selection: Seat selection on Air China varies based on your travel class and package options. In basic economy class, seat selection is generally chargeable; however, standard seats may be offered for free on some flexible and full economy tickets. During online check-in, you can take advantage of options like premium seats offering extra legroom or emergency exit rows, and you may pay an additional fee for these seats. These premium seats offer more than 84 cm of legroom, and pricing varies based on distance. In business class, seat selection is free, providing more comfort in this class.
Air China - Meal Service
Air China's meal service varies based on flight duration and class. In economy class, short-haul domestic flights generally do not offer free meals; however, passengers can purchase paid sandwiches or snacks or choose the 'skip meal' option. On long-haul international flights, free meals featuring Chinese-style dishes are provided. These meals include options like rice with meat, chicken, vegetables, salad, bread, and dessert. Beverages are free, but there is a charge for alcohol. In business class, gourmet multi-course meals with seafood and special sauces are offered, and these meals are of higher quality compared to economy. Special diet options include vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher, and gluten-free menus, which can be pre-ordered 24 hours before the flight. Michelin Green Star vegetarian options are also available on flights departing from Taiwan. There is no café service on board, so pre-ordering is recommended for special dietary requirements.
Air China - Loyalty Program
Air China's loyalty program, PhoenixMiles, offers various benefits for frequent travelers. Miles can be accumulated on Air China flights, flights with Star Alliance member partner airlines (such as United, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines), hotel stays, and car rentals. Miles can also be earned through purchases made with Chinese banks and international cards. PhoenixMiles has four membership levels: Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Super Platinum. Gold members receive a 25% bonus miles, priority check-in, Silver members receive a 15% bonus miles, Platinum members receive a 50% bonus miles and extra baggage allowance, and Super Platinum members enjoy special services. Earned miles can be redeemed for award tickets, class upgrades, and lounge access. Additionally, the family account merging feature makes it easier to accumulate miles.
Air China - Travel Classes
Forbidden Pavilion: Air China's most luxurious class, Forbidden Pavilion, offers exclusive Zodiac Venus suites. These suites elevate comfort with an 82-83 inch pitch and 23 inch width. Equipped with a 23 inch AVOD screen, AC, and USB outlets, travelers in this class enjoy a baggage allowance of over 40 kg, special meals, and fully flexible ticket conditions. Seat selection and changes/cancellations are extremely easy, making your travel even more stress-free.Capital Pavilion: The Capital Pavilion class is offered on all Air China aircraft and provides passengers with a wide range of comfort. In narrow-body aircraft, recliner seats in a 2-2 configuration are available, while wide-body aircraft feature fully flat seats. This class offers baggage allowance between 30-40 kg, delicious meal options, and seat selection. Flexibility for changes is quite high, and some changes can be made for free.Premium Economy: Premium Economy is available on A330-300, A350-900, B747-8, and B787-9 aircraft. Passengers sit in seats with a 38.5-39 inch pitch and 18.5 inch width. This class stands out with additional baggage allowance (23-32 kg), priority meal and boarding advantages. Seat selection is available, and moderate flexibility is provided for ticket changes.Economy: Air China's Economy class is available throughout the fleet. Passengers travel in seats with a 31 inch pitch and 17-18 inch width. The baggage allowance is typically 23 kg, with additional baggage available for a fee. Meal service is provided on short-haul flights, and seat selection incurs a fee. Change and cancellation options vary according to ticket type flexibility, with more convenience available in flex fares.
Air China - Cancellation & Changes
Cancellation Conditions: Ticket cancellation with Air China varies based on the type and class of the ticket. Refundable tickets can be canceled for a fee, while non-refundable tickets do not offer cancellation options. Special discounted rates may apply for cancellations made within 2 hours of ticket purchase. Additionally, no fee is charged for cancellations made at least 48 hours before departure, while a 5% fee is charged for cancellations made between 48 and 4 hours before departure. Higher fees may apply for cancellations made less than 4 hours before departure.Change Rules: Date or route changes can be made on Air China tickets, but these processes are generally chargeable. However, name changes are not allowed. Passengers can opt for flexible ticket options for more flexible travel plans; these tickets offer more change rights and advantages.Refund Process: Refunds are applicable for involuntary cancellations, and the refund process may take approximately 1 year from the refund date. The refund amount can be in the form of the original payment method or a coupon. Air China app users are provided with 4 refund vouchers annually, which can cover the refund service fee. Specific policies may apply in the event of a no-show, but detailed information is not available.
Air China - Seat Comfort & Entertainment
Seat Comfort and Legroom: Air China's fleet consists of Boeing and Airbus aircraft, and seat comfort is designed to enhance your travel experience. In Economy Class, seats typically offer 78-81 cm of legroom, with seat widths ranging from 45-47 cm. These seats are fabric-covered and ergonomically designed for comfort on long journeys. In Business Class, more luxury is offered, with seats that can recline 180 degrees. In this class, legroom and seat width are more generous, with leather upholstery providing extra comfort.In-Flight Entertainment: Air China's flights offer a rich selection of entertainment options. On long-haul flights, each seat is equipped with personal screens, providing access to a wide library of movies, TV shows, music, and games. Screen sizes typically range from 23 to 30 cm. Additionally, USB ports and electrical outlets are available for all passengers, making it easy to charge your devices throughout the flight. On short-haul flights, entertainment options may be limited. Wi-Fi access is available on some flights, but whether the service is chargeable and the speed options are not specified.
Air China - Special Services
Unaccompanied Minor Service: Air China offers a special service for unaccompanied children aged 5-12. To benefit from this service, you must reserve your child's travel plan at least 48 hours in advance. Unaccompanied minors are supervised by experienced staff from boarding to disembarkation, providing peace of mind to parents during travel.Pregnant Passenger Policy: With Air China, you can fly up to the 36th week for single pregnancies and up to the 32nd week for multiple pregnancies. Passengers flying after 32 weeks must provide a medical certificate. This policy is designed to ensure the safety of both the expectant mother and the baby.Assistance for Disabled Passengers: Various assistance services are offered for passengers with reduced mobility. To benefit from aids such as wheelchairs, you must notify at least 48 hours in advance. These services aim to provide passengers with a more comfortable and stress-free travel experience.Other Services: Air China provides services such as baby bassinets and beds to ensure the comfort of families traveling with infants. VIP and CIP services offer privileges such as priority boarding and meet-and-greet services. Additionally, special arrangements can be made for group reservations. Lounge access is provided through Air China and BGS Premier Lounges located in all terminals. Baby strollers and car seats can be checked for free, while pets are not accepted.
Air China - Pet Transport Policy
Cabin Pet Transport: Air China generally does not allow pets in the cabin. However, they may be accepted on some domestic flights with restrictions. In this case, the pet and carrier must not exceed a total weight of 5 kg, and the carrier dimensions must not exceed 40x40x23 cm.Cargo/Baggage Compartment Transport: Larger pets are transported in the cargo section, and reservations are mandatory. Brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs and aggressive breeds cannot be transported in the cargo section or require special approval.Required Documents and Rules: To transport pets, a veterinary health certificate (obtained within 48 hours), vaccination certificate (e.g., rabies vaccine), and microchip are required. Service animals can be transported in the cabin for free, but documentation and proof of training must be provided. Notification is required for other assistance animals. Temperature and ventilation rules apply to cargo transport, and there may be restrictions, especially during summer months.
Air China - Travel Tips
Booking early with Air China often provides an advantage for securing the best ticket prices. Additionally, keeping your travel dates flexible can help you find more affordable rates. When selecting a seat, seats in the emergency exit row may offer extra legroom, but these seats are generally not suitable for passengers with children. Sitting at the front of the plane allows for a quicker boarding and disembarking process, while the rear sections are typically quieter. Air China offers lounge access at major airport terminals like Beijing and Shanghai. For your connecting flights, you can track flight status and receive instant updates on delays using Air China's mobile app. The mobile app also facilitates online check-in and seat selection.
The information on this page about Air China is for general informational purposes only. Airlines may change their baggage rules, travel classes, cancellation/change policies and other services without prior notice. For the most current and accurate information, please visit the official Air China website. Tripuck cannot be held responsible for any changes to this information.
Hand Baggage / Cabin Baggage: When traveling with Air China, Economy Class passengers are allowed one piece of hand baggage weighing 5 kg with dimensions of 55x40x20 cm. First and Business Class passengers can carry two pieces of hand baggage weighing a total of 8 kg with the same dimensions.
Check-in Options: When traveling with Air China, the check-in process is quite flexible and user-friendly. Online check-in starts 48 hours before the flight via the Air China mobile app and ends 90 minutes before departure.
Air China operates flights to 170 cities in 43 countries. China, Japan, South Korea are among its most popular destinations.
Air China ticket prices vary by route and date. The current lowest fare starts from £161. Use the search box above for the latest prices.
Air China's meal service varies based on flight duration and class. In economy class, short-haul domestic flights generally do not offer free meals; however, passengers can purchase paid sandwiches or snacks or choose the 'skip meal' option.
Air China's loyalty program, PhoenixMiles, offers various benefits for frequent travelers. Miles can be accumulated on Air China flights, flights with Star Alliance member partner airlines (such as United, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines), hotel stays, and car rentals.
Cancellation Conditions: Ticket cancellation with Air China varies based on the type and class of the ticket. Refundable tickets can be canceled for a fee, while non-refundable tickets do not offer cancellation options.
Cabin Pet Transport: Air China generally does not allow pets in the cabin. However, they may be accepted on some domestic flights with restrictions.