Flying in China: Complete Airline Directory & Guide for Foreign Travelers

Updated: 2026-08-17 · By China Local Help Team · Transportation

China's domestic aviation network is one of the world's largest, connecting virtually every major city. Whether you're flying internationally or domestically, here's your complete guide.

How to Buy Tickets

Foreign nationals can purchase tickets through:

Airline ticket offices
Official airline websites and mobile apps
Travel booking platforms (Trip.com, Ctrip, Qunar)

Valid ID includes your passport, Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card, or Diplomatic Identity Card. You'll need the same document for check-in and boarding.

💡 Tip: Check baggage regulations before traveling — size, weight limits, and fees vary significantly between airlines.

International Airlines Serving China

Airline	Hotline	Website
Delta Airlines	800-221-1212	delta.com
American Airlines	400-818-7333	aa.com
Air France / KLM	400-810-6232	klm.com.cn
British Airways	400-881-0207	britishairways.com
Emirates	400-882-2380	emirates.com
Lufthansa	400-886-8868	lufthansa.com
Singapore Airlines	(86-10) 5940 7278	singaporeair.com

Major Chinese Airlines

Airline	Hotline	Website
Air China (中国国航)	95583	airchina.com.cn
China Southern (南方航空)	95539	csair.com
China Eastern (东方航空)	95530	ceair.com

The "Big Three" — Air China (Beijing hub), China Southern (Guangzhou hub), and China Eastern (Shanghai hub) — operate the vast majority of domestic flights.

Domestic Flight Tips

Arrive 2 hours early for domestic flights
Security — Remove laptops, liquids, and power banks
Delays — Common in summer at Beijing/Shanghai airports
High-speed rail alternative — For distances under 800 km, the train is often faster door-to-door

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