Skip to main content

Major domestic airlines in China

China’s aviation space is led by three state-owned giants that together control nearly 65% of the market. These carriers offer extensive domestic and international routes, for business and long-haul travel.

Low-cost carriers are gaining momentum, accounting for around 15% of domestic flights. These budget airlines provide affordable and efficient travel options, especially for short-haul routes within China.  

If you are seeking premium service or cost-effective fares, China's diverse airline landscape has something for every traveller. Here’s a quick guide to the key players, market share, and useful resources.

 

Airline

Hub Airport

Fleet Size

Market Share %

Website

Major Domestic Airlines

China Southern

Guangzhou

658

24.1

www.csair.com

China Eastern

Shanghai Pudong

604

22.3

www.ceair.com

Air China

Beijing Capital

453

18.4

www.airchina.com

Major Domestic Budget Airlines

Spring Airlines

Shanghai Hongqiao

112

5.2

www.ch.com

Juneyao Air

Shanghai Pudong

88

4.1

www.juneyaoair.com

China United

Beijing Daxing

56

2.3

www.cu-air.com


 

Additional resources

Civil Aviation Administration of China

Aviation Policies China

Centre for Aviation

OAG Aviation
Skytrax Reviews  

Airfleets   

Top airlines China

Top airlines global

 

 

#ChinaAviation #TravelChina #AirTravel #BudgetAirlines #BigThreeAirlines #AirChina #ChinaEastern #ChinaSouthern #SpringAirlines #JuneyaoAir

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Luggage Guidelines for Domestic Flights in China

It is essential to understand airline baggage regulations to ensure a smooth check-in and boarding experience when traveling on domestic flights within China. Most Chinese airlines enforce strict guidelines for both carry-on and checked baggage, including specific weight limits, size restrictions, and rules governing liquids and electronic devices.   Familiarizing yourself with these requirements in advance can help you avoid delays, additional fees, or the confiscation of prohibited items at security checkpoints. Passengers are strongly advised to consult the airline’s official website or other official online portals for the most up-to-date and airline-specific information prior to travel. The following provides a general overview and is intended for guidance only.   Checked Baggage Weight: 20 kg (Economy), 30 kg (Business), 40 kg (First Class) Size: ≤ 158 cm (L + W + H)   Carry-On Luggage Weight: 5–10 kg (strict on budget airlines) Size: ≤ 20×40×55 cm Personal Item: 1 ...
Post a Comment
Read more

Chinese Gift Giving Culture

Gift-giving plays a significant role in Chinese culture, symbolizing respect, goodwill, and relationship-building (Guanxi) in both personal and business contexts. It is deeply rooted in Confucian values emphasizing reciprocity and harmony. Gifts are commonly exchanged at every appropriate opportunity, including festivals such as Chinese New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival, as well as during weddings and business meetings, to strengthen relationships and express appreciation.   When giving gifts in China, thoughtfulness and presentation matter more than the value of the gift. Avoid taboo items such as clocks, umbrellas, or sharp objects, as they carry negative connotations. Instead, choose items that symbolize prosperity and good fortune, like tea, fine wine, or specialty foods. Present gifts with both hands and expect modest refusal before acceptance as a sign of politeness.   In business, gift-giving helps build trust and long-term partnerships, but it’s important to be mind...
Post a Comment
Read more

Chinese New Year and Global Trade

The Chinese Spring Festival, also known as Chinese New Year, is the most important traditional festival in China, typically falling between late January and mid-February. It marks the beginning of the lunar new year and is celebrated with family gatherings, feasts, fireworks, and various cultural activities. It is a period where Chinese go home to reunite with family, exchange gifts, and wish each other prosperity for the coming year. This year is referred to as the year of the snake. China launched a month-long online shopping event to promote traditional Chinese culture, festive goods, boost e-commerce sales, among others. The event, initiated by the Ministry of Commerce and organized under the guidance of several government Departments and the China Consumers Association, is running from 7 January to 5 February 2025. E-commerce platforms and brick-and-mortar businesses launched a wide variety of shopping events where high-quality products, including imported goods, are put on ...
Post a Comment
Read more