Air China is the flag carrier of China and the country’s largest airline, headquartered in Beijing. It is a founding member of the Star Alliance network. Some key facts:

– Founded in 1988 as the national airline of China
– Hubs: Beijing Capital Airport, Chengdu, Shanghai
– Alliance: Star Alliance
– Fleet Size: Over 600 aircraft
– Destinations: Over 610 domestic, over 60 international
– Passengers: Over 100 million annually
– Revenue: CNY 142 billion (2019)
– Employees: Over 60,000 globally

Air China has an extensive domestic network covering all major Chinese cities and also operates long-haul international routes across Asia, Europe, North America and Australia.

Domestic Network

Air China has a comprehensive domestic network in China serving over 180 destinations across the country including all major cities and provincial capitals. Some of the busiest domestic routes are:

– Beijing – Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Shenzhen
– Shanghai – Chengdu, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Xi’an
– Guangzhou – Chengdu, Shenzhen, Changsha, Haikou
– Shenzhen – Chengdu, Xiamen, Hangzhou

In addition to passenger flights, Air China also transports air cargo domestically. Chengdu and Shanghai serve as secondary hubs within China.

International Network

Key regions served by Air China’s international network include:

– Asia – Seoul, Singapore, Bangkok, Osaka, Jakarta
– Europe – London, Paris, Frankfurt, Rome
– North America – Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, Vancouver
– Australia – Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane
– Middle East – Dubai, Abu Dhabi

Air China has codeshare partnerships with Star Alliance members like United, Lufthansa and Air Canada to expand international connectivity.

Fleet Information

The Air China fleet consists of over 600 mainline and regional jets including:

– Airbus A320, A319, A321 (short haul)
– Airbus A330, A340 (medium/long haul)
– Boeing 737, 747, 777, 787 Dreamliner (short/long haul)
– Comac C919 (domestic flights)

It operates one of the largest 747-8 and 747-9 fleets supporting high density trunk routes in China. Newer A350s, 787s and 777s provide modern comforts on international long-haul routes.

Cabin Classes

Air China offers First Class, Business Class and Economy Class across its long-haul fleet:

– First Class – Fully enclosed suites with utmost privacy and luxury
– Business Class – Lie-flat seating with direct aisle access
– Premium Economy – Added amenities and legroom
– Economy Class – Standard comfort

Domestic flights feature Business and Economy cabins. All classes have access to entertainment screens.

Frequent Flyer – Air China Phoenix Miles

Air China Phoenix Miles is the loyalty program where members can earn miles on Air China and Star Alliance flights. Miles can be redeemed for upgrades and reward flights. There are Silver, Gold and Platinum elite tiers with lounge access, extra baggage allowance and priority services.

Lounges

Air China operates ‘Red Crown’ lounges in its hub airports Beijing Capital, Shanghai Pudong, Chengdu and Guangzhou, including first class lounges. Additional lounges are available at other focus cities and international destinations. Lounges provide amenities like free food, conference rooms, WiFi and amenities before flight.