Air China, established in 1988, is China's sole national flag carrier and a prominent member of the Star Alliance network. Headquartered in Beijing, the airline operates major hubs at Beijing Capital International Airport and Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport. It offers an extensive network of domestic and international flights, serving numerous destinations worldwide.
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Air China has earned several prestigious awards, recognising its excellence in the aviation industry. It has been ranked on the World Brand Lab's Top 500 World Brands list and named the Best Chinese Airline in the Business Traveller Asia-Pacific Awards. The airline also received Spain s highest tourism honour, the "Plaque for Tourist Merit," and ranked among the top Chinese airlines in the Skytrax World Airline Awards, reflecting its strong position in the region.
Air China's fleet includes a mix of aircraft from Airbus, Boeing, and domestic manufacturers, supporting its extensive domestic and international network. The airline operates a range of aircraft models, offering diverse options to meet various travel needs. Additionally, Air China is set to become the launch customer for the COMAC C929 widebody jet, reflecting its commitment to expanding its fleet with modern, efficient aircraft.
Air China serves a vast network of destinations, encompassing 133 domestic and 73 international locations across 46 countries. Its primary hubs are Beijing Capital International Airport, Shanghai Pudong Airport, and Chengdu Airport. The airline has also been expanding its European routes. Additionally, Air China benefits from its ability to fly over Russian airspace, offering cost-effective and efficient connections between Asia, Europe, and North America.
Air China's Premium Economy Class offers enhanced comfort with more legroom and larger seats compared to standard Economy. Available on select aircraft, it features a 2-4-2 seat configuration with a seat pitch ranging from 36 to 39 inches, depending on the aircraft. Passengers enjoy adjustable headrests, personal entertainment screens, and upgraded meal services.
Air China's Business Class, known as Capital Pavilion, is designed to provide discerning travellers with a luxurious and comfortable journey. The seats are arranged in a 2-2-2 configuration on Boeing 777-300ER and Boeing 787 aircraft, featuring lie-flat capabilities and direct aisle access. Amenities include luxury toiletries, personal entertainment screens with a wide selection of movies and TV shows, and attentive service from the cabin crew.
Air China's First Class, known as the Forbidden Pavilion, is available on select aircraft, including Boeing 747-400, Boeing 747-8, and Boeing 777-300ER. The cabin features a 1-2-1 seat configuration with spacious suites offering direct aisle access, lie-flat seats, and personal entertainment systems with 23-inch screens. Passengers enjoy personalised service, gourmet dining options with multiple courses, and luxury toiletries.
Air China's in-flight entertainment (IFE) varies by aircraft, offering a range of options to enhance passenger experience. On aircraft equipped with Audio Video on Demand (AVOD), passengers can enjoy a selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games through personal seat-back screens. The content includes international and Chinese films, popular TV series, and curated music channels. Additionally, some aircraft feature the "Fantasy Sky" portable wireless system, allowing passengers to connect personal devices to access in-flight entertainment content.
Air China offers a variety of in-flight meal options across its cabins, aiming to cater to diverse passenger preferences. In Economy Class, meals typically include a choice between Chinese and Western dishes, accompanied by beverages like Chinese tea. Business and First Class passengers can expect enhanced dining experiences, with multi-course meals, and premium beverages. Air China also offers a "Cellar in the Sky" programme, providing a selection of fine wines curated for passengers seeking a refined culinary experience at 30,000 feet
Air China offers multiple check-in options, including online check-in starting 36 hours before international flights and 20 hours before domestic flights, with a 3-hour and 1-hour closure prior to departure. Passengers can also use self-service kiosks at the airport or check in at Air China counters. Online check-in is not available for certain passenger categories like unaccompanied minors or those needing special assistance.
Air China operates lounges in various airports, providing passengers with a comfortable environment to relax before flights. Amenities typically include a selection of complimentary beverages and meals, comfortable seating, and facilities such as Wi-Fi and flight information displays. For example, the Air China Premium Lounge at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport offers air conditioning, alcohol, disabled access, flight information, internet, newspapers/magazines, non-smoking areas, refreshments, TV, and Wi-Fi. Lounge offerings can vary by location, so it's advisable to check specific lounge details before travelling.
Air China's frequent flyer programme, PhoenixMiles, rewards passengers for their loyalty to Air China and its partner airlines. Members earn miles through flights and various non-flight activities, such as hotel stays and car rentals. Accumulated miles can be redeemed for award flights, upgrades, and other travel-related benefits. PhoenixMiles offers multiple elite status tiers, each providing additional privileges like priority boarding, extra baggage allowance, and lounge access. As a member of the Star Alliance network, PhoenixMiles members can also enjoy benefits across numerous international airlines.
