China is home to one of the largest aviation markets in the world, with hundreds of millions of passengers traveling each year on both international and domestic routes. The list of airlines in China is vast and diverse, ranging from global full-service carriers to budget-friendly low-cost airlines and specialized cargo operators. With major airports like Beijing Capital International Airport, Shanghai Pudong International Airport, and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport serving as global hubs, China plays a central role in connecting Asia with the rest of the world. This blog provides a detailed and well-structured overview of the list of airlines in China, covering international airlines, domestic carriers, regional operators, low-cost airlines, and cargo services.
Meaning of Airline in China
Airlines in China are aviation companies responsible for providing air transport services for passengers and cargo within the country and internationally. The list of airlines in China includes state-owned giants, privately owned carriers, and subsidiaries that cater to specific market needs. These airlines contribute significantly to the country’s economy by promoting trade, tourism, and regional connectivity.
International Airlines in China
International airlines in China are large carriers that connect the country with destinations across Asia, Europe, North America, Africa, and Oceania. These airlines are known for their extensive fleets, long-haul services, and global partnerships.
- Air China – The flagship carrier of China, operating flights to more than 180 destinations worldwide, with Beijing as its main hub.
- China Eastern Airlines – Based in Shanghai, this airline provides comprehensive global coverage and is part of the SkyTeam Alliance.
- China Southern Airlines – Headquartered in Guangzhou, this is one of the largest airlines in Asia, offering extensive intercontinental services.
- Hainan Airlines – A privately owned carrier with strong international networks, serving Europe, North America, and Asia.
These airlines form the backbone of China’s long-haul international travel and represent the country’s presence in global aviation.
Domestic Airlines in China
The domestic aviation market in China is one of the busiest in the world, connecting major cities, smaller towns, and remote regions. The list of airlines in China includes several domestic-focused carriers that ensure internal mobility across the vast country.
- Shenzhen Airlines – Provides services across major Chinese cities, supporting both business and leisure travel.
- Shandong Airlines – Focused on routes within China, with hubs in Jinan and Qingdao.
- XiamenAir – Based in Xiamen, offering domestic routes along with some regional and international flights.
- China United Airlines – Operates primarily from Beijing Daxing International Airport, focusing on domestic destinations.
Domestic airlines play an essential role in keeping China’s large population connected and mobile.
Low-Cost Airlines in China
The rise of low-cost carriers has transformed the Chinese aviation industry by making air travel more affordable for millions of people. The list of airlines in China also includes budget airlines that operate mainly short-haul and regional routes.
- Spring Airlines – The first and largest low-cost airline in China, headquartered in Shanghai.
- 9 Air – A Guangzhou-based low-cost carrier focusing on domestic and short-haul regional flights.
- West Air – Operates as a budget carrier based in Chongqing, providing domestic and some international services.
- Lucky Air – Based in Kunming, offering affordable routes across China and nearby countries.
These airlines make air travel accessible for students, families, and budget travelers across the country.
Regional Airlines in China
Regional airlines in China cater to smaller cities and less accessible areas, ensuring that even remote regions have access to reliable air transport.
- Tibet Airlines – Based in Lhasa, focusing on connecting Tibet with other parts of China and nearby international destinations.
- Chengdu Airlines – Provides regional services from Sichuan Province.
- Urumqi Air – Connects Xinjiang with other Chinese provinces and regional destinations.
- GX Airlines – Based in Nanning, Guangxi Province, serving smaller cities in southern China.
These airlines are particularly important for fostering regional development and supporting tourism in less urbanized areas.
Cargo Airlines in China
Given China’s role as the world’s largest exporter, cargo airlines are vital for transporting goods globally. The list of airlines in China includes some of the biggest freight carriers in the world.
- SF Airlines – The largest cargo airline in China, owned by SF Express, specializing in domestic and international freight.
- China Cargo Airlines – A joint venture involving China Eastern Airlines, focusing on cargo services.
- YTO Cargo Airlines – Operates domestic and regional cargo services.
- JD Airlines – Backed by JD.com, providing logistics support for e-commerce and global trade.
Cargo airlines are crucial to supporting China’s export-driven economy and maintaining the country’s global trade connections.
Airlines in China and Their Main Hub Airports
| Airline Name | Main Hub Airport / Terminal Name |
|---|---|
| Air China | Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) |
| China Eastern Airlines | Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) |
| China Southern Airlines | Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) |
| Hainan Airlines | Haikou Meilan International Airport (HAK) |
| Shenzhen Airlines | Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX) |
| XiamenAir | Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN) |
| Spring Airlines | Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) |
| Tibet Airlines | Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA) |
| SF Airlines | Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX) |
| China Cargo Airlines | Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) |
Top 10 Airlines in China
- Air China – National flagship carrier with global reach.
- China Eastern Airlines – A SkyTeam member with strong Shanghai operations.
- China Southern Airlines – One of the largest airlines in Asia.
- Hainan Airlines – Internationally recognized for premium service.
- Shenzhen Airlines – Provides extensive domestic coverage.
- XiamenAir – Known for strong regional services and international expansion.
- Spring Airlines – Leading low-cost airline in China.
- Tibet Airlines – Specialized in high-altitude operations and regional connections.
- SF Airlines – China’s leading cargo airline.
- China Cargo Airlines – Key freight operator supporting global trade.
SEE ALSO: List of Domestic Airports in China by Regions and Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the largest airline in China?
The largest airline in China is China Southern Airlines, with one of the biggest fleets in the world.
2. Which Chinese airline is the national carrier?
Air China serves as the national flag carrier of China.
3. Are there low-cost airlines in China?
Yes, airlines such as Spring Airlines, 9 Air, and West Air operate as low-cost carriers.
4. Which airlines connect China internationally?
International routes are primarily operated by Air China, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, and Hainan Airlines.
5. What are the major airline hubs in China?
Key hubs include Beijing Capital International Airport, Shanghai Pudong International Airport, and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport.
6. Which airlines serve domestic routes in China?
Shenzhen Airlines, XiamenAir, Shandong Airlines, and China United Airlines are leading domestic carriers.
7. Does China have regional airlines?
Yes, regional carriers like Tibet Airlines, Chengdu Airlines, and Urumqi Air connect smaller and remote regions.
8. What is the largest cargo airline in China?
SF Airlines is the largest cargo airline in China, operated by logistics company SF Express.
9. Which Chinese airline is based in Shanghai?
China Eastern Airlines and Spring Airlines are headquartered in Shanghai.
10. Are Chinese airlines part of global alliances?
Yes, Air China is part of Star Alliance, while China Eastern Airlines and China Southern Airlines have been associated with SkyTeam.
11. Which Chinese airline is popular for affordable travel?
Spring Airlines is the leading low-cost airline in China, offering budget-friendly fares across the country and region.
DISCOVER ALSO: List of International Airports in China (By City and Region)
Conclusion
The list of airlines in China highlights the strength and diversity of the country’s aviation sector. From international giants like Air China, China Eastern Airlines, and China Southern Airlines, to domestic players such as Shenzhen Airlines and low-cost carriers like Spring Airlines, China offers unparalleled connectivity. Regional airlines including Tibet Airlines and Urumqi Air ensure even remote regions remain accessible, while cargo carriers like SF Airlines and China Cargo Airlines sustain China’s position as the world’s leading exporter. Altogether, the list of airlines in China reflects a dynamic and rapidly evolving aviation industry that plays a crucial role in global travel and trade.