Are you planning travel to China, and still worried about what airline to choose? Don't worry, this article will introduce and recommend you Air China, which has modern amenties and good flight experience. Keep reading and know more before choosing airline!
Introduction to Air China
As the national flag carrier of the People's Republic of China, Air China (CA) is a leading global airline headquartered in Beijing, operating primarily out of Beijing Capital (PEK) and Daxing (PKX) airports. A key member of the Star Alliance, it provides seamless connectivity to over 180 destinations across six continents, bridging China with major hubs in Europe, North America, and Australia.
The airline is distinguished by its modern fleet—including the advanced Boeing 747-8 and Airbus A350—and is renowned for its commitment to safety and premium "Phoenix" service standards. Whether traveling for business or leisure, passengers choose Air China for its extensive network, reliable punctuality, and authentic Chinese hospitality.
Air China Cabin Classes
shallow focus photography of people inside of passenger plane Via Unsplash (by Suhyeon Choi)
Class | Seat Features & Comfort | Baggage Allowance (Int'l) |
First Class | Ultra-Premium: Private suites with fully lie-flat beds. Available on flagship B747-8 and B777-300ER aircraft. | 2 x 32kg checked bags |
Business Class | Business Pro: Lie-flat beds with direct aisle access (1-2-1 or 2-2-2 layout) on long-haul A350/B777 flights. Recliner seats on short-haul. | 2 x 32kg checked bags |
Premium Economy | Enhanced Space: Dedicated cabin featuring extra legroom, wider seats, and deeper recline than standard Economy. | 2 x 23kg checked bags |
Economy Class | Modern Standard: Ergonomic 18-inch wide seats on newer wide-body jets. Includes pillows, blankets, and seat-back screens. | 2 x 23kg checked bags |
Key Amenities & In-Flight Experience
- Dining: A curated selection of both authentic Chinese cuisine and Western-style hot meals served across all cabins.
- Entertainment: Personal seat-back screens featuring a global library of movies, music, and interactive games.
- Connectivity: Universal power outlets and USB charging ports are standard on most long-haul international routes.
- Flexibility: Eligible travelers can manage bookings or purchase last-minute cabin upgrades directly via the Air China mobile app.
Air China Baggage Allowance
a blue suitcase sitting on top of a wooden floor Via Unsplash (by American Green Travel)
Air China | Essential Packing Requirements
- Security: Bags must be locked and fastened (unless specific local regulations prohibit locking).
- Integrity: Do not tie multiple bags together as one piece; do not attach external items to the outside of the bag.
- Prohibited Packaging: Bamboo/wicker baskets, straw ropes, and plastic bags are not acceptable as outer packaging.
- Identification: It is highly recommended to attach a tag with your name and contact number to the exterior of each bag.
Air China | Weight and Size Restrictions
Feature | Domestic Flights (China) | International / Regional Flights |
Max Dimensions (L+W+H) | Max: $100 \times 60 \times 40$ cm | Max: 158 cm (62") |
Min Dimensions (L+W+H) | Total must be at least 60 cm (24") | Total must be at least 60 cm (24") |
Absolute Max Size | N/A | 203 cm (80") (inclusive of wheels/handles) |
Weight Limit (Per Piece) | Min: 2 kg / Max: 32 kg | Min: 2 kg / Max: 32 kg |
Important Note: Pieces exceeding 32 kg or 203 cm cannot be checked as standard baggage and must be repacked or shipped via cargo.
Air China | Special Baggage & Excess Fees
Air China classifies certain items as "Special Baggage," which may require different booking procedures, specific packaging, and unique fee structures.
- Special Items include: Pets (as checked baggage), competitive sports equipment, small appliances, musical instruments, fishing gear, and aquatic products.
- Excess Fees: If your baggage exceeds the free allowance provided by your ticket class (Piece or Weight concept), Excess Baggage Fees will apply based on IATA world area divisions.
Air China Seat Selection
black and yellow bus seats Via Unsplash (by Aleksei Zaitcev)
Category | Details & Eligibility |
Check-in Types | Individual Check-in, Family Check-in. Note: Family check-in is for Air China operated flights only. 1 adult can check in 1-2 children in the same cabin. To cancel, children's check-in must be cleared before the adult's. |
Excluded Travelers | VIPs, sick/disabled passengers, pregnant women, unaccompanied minors, or those requiring special services (e.g., cradles, wheelchairs). |
Free Seat Selection | Air China, Shenzhen Airlines, Shandong Airlines, Air Macau; Star Alliance Members: Lufthansa, United, EVA Air, Air Canada, South African Airways, TAP Air Portugal, and Singapore Airlines. |
Product Introduction & Pricing
Air China offers personalized Economy Class seat selection to meet diverse travel needs. For International & Regional flights, passengers can book via cash, mileage, or seat vouchers. For Domestic flights, seats can be reserved using mileage or vouchers.
Pricing varies by aircraft type, route, and booking time. While many free seats remain available, some are restricted for operational or safety reasons. Please refer to the real-time system display for availability.
1. International & Regional Routes (Unit: AUD/CNY approx.)
Seat Type | < 2000km | 2000 - 5000km | 5000 - 12000km | North America | > 12000km | Deadline |
Extra Legroom (Bulkhead/Exit Row) | ~$42 | ~$85 | ~$170 | ~$210 | ~$255 | Until Check-in closes |
Rows 2-5 / Front Window/Aisle | ~$21 | ~$42 | ~$85 | ~$105 | ~$128 | 6h before flight |
Rows 6-10 (Middle) / Rows 11-15 | ~$11 | ~$21 | ~$42 | ~$64 | ~$64 | 6h before flight |
Note: Select Japan/Korea routes over 2000km may be categorized under the "< 2000km" tier.
2. Domestic Routes (Excl. HK/Macau/Taiwan) (Unit: Mileage)
Seat Type | Mileage Required | Sales Deadline |
Bulkhead / Extra Legroom | 3,100 | Until Check-in closes |
Emergency Exit Row | 3,100 | 3 hours before flight |
Front Cabin (Rows 2-5) | 1,600 | 6 hours before flight |
Air China Check-In
A passenger plane at Hamad International Airport in Doha with empty seating area in the foreground. Via Pexels (by Æmyr Sahli)
Air China (CA) offers a variety of check-in options, including online (App, website, and WeChat mini-program) and offline (airport counters and self-service kiosks). The most efficient method is to check in via the Air China App or official website the day before your flight. By selecting your seat and generating an electronic boarding pass in advance, you can arrive at the airport just 2–3 hours before departure for a stress-free experience.
Air China Online Check-in (Recommended)
- Platforms: Air China App, WeChat Mini-program, or the Air China Official Website.
- Opening Times: Domestic Flights: Typically opens the day before departure (specific times vary by city).
- International Flights: Generally available from 36 hours down to 2 hours before scheduled departure.
- Process: Enter your Name and ID/Passport number → Select your flight → Choose your seat → Confirm and generate your Electronic Boarding Pass.
- Important Note: Online check-in is not available for passengers requiring special assistance (e.g., wheelchair users, infants, or passengers with medical conditions).
Air China Offline Check-in
- Self-Service Kiosks (CUSS): Upon arrival at the airport, scan your ID card or enter your ticket number at an Air China kiosk to print your boarding pass.
- Manual Counters: Head to the designated Air China check-in counters with your valid travel documents (ID or Passport).
- Opening Times: Counters usually open 2–3 hours before departure.
- Closing Times: Check-in typically closes 45–60 minutes before the flight. For international routes, it may close earlier, so please allow ample time.
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FAQs about Air China
How do I manage my Air China booking online?
You can manage your Air China booking by visiting the Air China official website and navigating to the 'Manage Booking' section. You'll need your booking reference number (PNR) and the passenger's surname. Through this portal, you can change flights, select seats, request special meals, add baggage, and request refunds or cancellations. Passengers who booked via Trip.com can also manage certain aspects of their booking directly through the Trip.com platform.Is Air China's website and customer service available in English?
Yes, Air China's international website (airchina.com) is available in English, making it accessible for Australian travellers. The website allows English-language booking, flight management, and customer service enquiries. Air China also operates English-language customer service lines in Australia. Alternatively, Trip.com offers full English-language support for booking and managing Air China flights.How early should I check in for an Air China international flight?
For Air China international flights departing from Australia, online check-in typically opens 24 hours before departure and closes 1 hour prior. If checking in at the airport, it's recommended to arrive at least 3 hours before your scheduled departure for international flights. Airport check-in counters generally close 60–90 minutes before departure. Always verify the specific check-in times for your flight on your booking confirmation.What is Air China's baggage allowance for flights from Australia?
Air China's baggage allowance for international flights from Australia varies by cabin class and fare type. Generally, Economy Class passengers are permitted one piece of checked baggage up to 23kg, while Business Class passengers are allowed two pieces up to 32kg each. Carry-on baggage is typically limited to one item up to 5–10kg. It is important to check your specific ticket conditions at the time of booking, as allowances can vary by fare type. You can view baggage allowance details when searching for Air China flights on Trip.com.What is Air China's frequent flyer programme?
Air China's frequent flyer programme is called PhoenixMiles (凤凰知音). Members can earn miles on Air China flights, as well as on flights operated by Star Alliance partner airlines such as United Airlines, Lufthansa, and Singapore Airlines. Miles can be redeemed for award flights, seat upgrades, and other rewards. The programme has four membership tiers: Member, Silver, Gold, and Platinum, each offering increasing benefits such as lounge access, priority check-in, and bonus miles.How can I verify my Air China ticket after booking?
To verify your Air China ticket, visit the Air China official website and use the 'Manage Booking' function, entering your booking reference (PNR) and surname. You can also verify your booking via the Air China mobile app. If you booked through Trip.com, your confirmed itinerary and e-ticket details will be available in your Trip.com account under 'My Trips'. If you experience any discrepancies, contact Air China customer service or Trip.com's support team for assistance.