Top 10 Airlines to Fly to China in 2025 for Comfort and Value

380

Planning a trip to China? From the Great Wall and Beijing’s Forbidden City to the neon-lit skyline of Shanghai and the serene landscapes of Guilin, China offers a mix of ancient wonders and modern marvels. Having visited China twice and over 65 countries as a travel blogger, I’ve picked up some insider tricks to make flying there affordable and easy.

For this article, I analyzed over 200 flight routes from 30 major US airports to bring you the 10 best airlines to fly to China in 2025. This list covers China’s major airports, including Beijing Capital (PEK), Shanghai Pudong (PVG), and Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN), as well as regional airports for easy access to China’s iconic regions. With these top airlines and some budget-savvy tips, you’ll be ready to explore China without overspending. Here’s how to make your trip to China seamless from the moment you take off!

Quick tip to find cheap flights to China

For the past 4 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to get amazing flight deals. All you have to do is enter your home airport and where you want to go, and from there, they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals. And the coolest part? It’s 100% FREE! In 2024, I’ve saved thousands of dollars from their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $745 roundtrip fare from Boston to Shanghai.

There’s a free and a premium version – the free one has pretty much everything you’ll need. Though if you’re like me and travel a lot every year, it’s worth upgrading to the paid version for $49 per year. In my experience, you’ll get your money back after finding just one discounted flight! As such, I recommend signing up for the free trial (you can cancel at any time) to try it for yourself. And if you like it, be sure to use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Now without further ado, here are the best China flights in 2025.

1. 🇨🇳 Hainan Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Beijing (PKX), Haikou (HAK), Shenzhen (SZX)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Fortune Wings Club, partners with Alaska Airlines
• ☕ Perks: Skytrax 5-star rating, excellent value, surprisingly good business class
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Look for their “Sweet Spot” fares that appear randomly throughout the year, offering business class to China for just slightly more than premium economy on other carriers

Hainan Airlines has somehow managed to stay under the radar despite being one of the best ways to reach China. This carrier has quietly built a reputation for delivering premium service at prices that make you double-check to make sure you didn’t accidentally book Economy.

Business Class passengers here are in for a treat. You get the full premium experience: lie-flat beds, quality bedding, restaurant-worthy Chinese and Western dining options, and attentive service from crew members who seem genuinely happy to be there. The cabins on their newer 787 Dreamliners feel spacious and modern, without the gaudy gold accents you might expect from some of their competitors.

What makes Hainan particularly awesome for China trips is their expanding US network, with flights from cities like Boston, Seattle, and Los Angeles. Their connections through Beijing’s new Daxing airport are smooth, and they serve secondary Chinese cities that other international carriers don’t reach directly.

For perks, Hainan’s Fortune Wings Club program offers solid value, especially through their partnership with Alaska Airlines for US travelers. While they might not have the name recognition of state-owned giants like Air China, seasoned China travelers often prefer Hainan for their consistent quality and significantly better value. 

• Read next: Life-Changing Lessons from Retreats

---

Looking to save BIG on airfare? I recommend signing up for Dollar Flight Club. Thanks to DFC, I’ve saved $5,000+ on travel in 2024…so I couldn’t recommend it more!

---

2. 🇨🇳 Air China

• 🏠 Hub: Beijing (PEK), Shanghai (PVG), Chengdu (CTU)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Phoenix Miles, part of Star Alliance
• ☕ Perks: Most extensive route network within China, decent premium cabins, good award availability
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Their mobile app lets you pre-select Chinese or Western meals before your flight, and choosing the Chinese options often means getting the best food they offer

Air China is China’s flag carrier and it definitely shows in their massive route network. If you’re heading to some random third-tier Chinese city that you can barely pronounce, chances are Air China can get you there through their Beijing hub without making you piece together some complicated multi-airline itinerary.

From North American cities including Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, and Washington DC, their Boeing 777 and 747-8 aircraft offer direct service to Beijing with onward connections throughout China. While their hard product varies by aircraft, recent fleet updates have significantly improved the experience with better seats and enhanced entertainment options.

Membership in Star Alliance creates valuable opportunities for using United MileagePlus miles or other partner points for award tickets. Economy fares typically run $700-1,200 round trip from the US West Coast, with occasional sales dipping below $600. Business Class regularly undercuts competitors on transpacific routes, sometimes by $1,000 or more during promotional periods.

Air China’s generous “transit without visa” program allows eligible passengers to explore Beijing for up to 144 hours without obtaining a full Chinese visa, creating free stopover opportunities. While service standards don’t quite match premium Asian carriers, recent improvements in food quality and crew training have narrowed the gap considerably. 

• Read next: Cheap Flights from Madrid
• You may also like: Best Airlines to Fly to Asia
• For more reading: Best Airlines to Fly to Japan
• Keep reading: Beautiful Places to Visit in South Korea
• Also worth reading: Best Airlines to Fly to Thailand
• Readers also enjoyed: Enchanting Spots to Visit in Macau

3. 🇨🇳 China Southern

• 🏠 Hub: Guangzhou (CAN), Beijing (PKX), Shanghai (PVG)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First (select routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Sky Pearl Club, formerly SkyTeam (now independent)
• ☕ Perks: Largest fleet in Asia, good connections to Southeast Asia, spacious A380 cabins
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Their 72-hour transit visa exemptions through Guangzhou let you explore southern China without a full visa if you’re continuing to a third country

China Southern is the sleeping giant of Chinese aviation that more travelers should pay attention to. They’re actually Asia’s largest airline by fleet size, and their massive Guangzhou hub creates perfect connections not just throughout China, but also to Thailand, Vietnam, and other Southeast Asian hotspots.

Their long-haul Business Class varies depending on which aircraft you snag, but their newer 787s and A350s feature private pods that compete well with what you’d find on major global carriers. The A380s are worth seeking out if you can find them, with a spacious cabin that feels less crowded than what you’ll experience on many other airlines. Meanwhile, their Economy cabin is actually better than you might expect, with slightly more generous legroom than many competitors and seats that recline a decent amount. 

What makes China Southern particularly interesting is their Guangzhou hub. It’s typically less congested than Beijing or Shanghai, with smoother connections and shorter walking distances. Plus, the 72-hour visa-free transit policy lets you actually explore the city between flights without jumping through all the hoops of getting a full Chinese visa.

Since leaving SkyTeam, their Sky Pearl Club program has become a bit of an outlier, but they maintain partnerships with American Airlines and several other carriers. The good news is they frequently offer surprisingly affordable premium cabin fares, often significantly undercutting their competitors. 

• Read next: Breathtaking Places to Visit in Los Angeles
• You may also like: Best Airlines to Fly to Amsterdam
• For more reading: Best Airlines to Fly to Paris

4. 🇨🇭 SWISS

• 🏠 Hub: Zurich (ZRH), Geneva (GVA)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More, part of Star Alliance
• ☕ Perks: Swiss precision service, excellent transit experience, high-quality catering
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Look for their “throne” single seats in business class (A or K seats in odd-numbered rows) that offer both window views and direct aisle access without anyone next to you

SWISS brings their famous Swiss precision to China routes, offering a premium journey through their spectacularly efficient Zurich hub. While you’ll add a bit of extra flying time compared to direct options, the quality of the experience often more than compensates.

The Business Class configuration stands out with a clever staggered layout featuring sought-after “throne” seats that give you both a window and direct aisle access with extra privacy. The cabin feels distinctly Swiss: elegant, functional, and thoughtfully designed. Comfortable mattress pads dramatically improve sleep quality compared to competitors who just toss you a thin blanket. Economy passengers enjoy better-than-average meals and signature Swiss chocolate that somehow tastes better at 35,000 feet.

Zurich’s airport deserves special mention for its refreshingly manageable size compared to most global hubs, with logical layouts, clean facilities, and reasonable walking distances. SWISS lounges go beyond typical offerings with good hot food options and spotlessly maintained shower facilities that can transform your layover from a chore into a refreshing break.

The Miles & More program ties into the entire Star Alliance network, with particularly good redemption options for those travelling to China. Their partnerships with Air China and Shenzhen Airlines create seamless connectivity throughout the country once you arrive. 

• Read next: Beautiful Places to Visit in Switzerland
• You may also like: Hidden Gems to Visit in San Francisco
• For more reading: Budget-Friendly Destinations from Miami

5. 🇨🇳 China Eastern

• 🏠 Hub: Shanghai Pudong (PVG), Shanghai Hongqiao (SHA), Kunming (KMG)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First (select routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Eastern Miles, part of SkyTeam alliance
• ☕ Perks: Extensive domestic network, competitive pricing, improving premium cabins
• 🧠 Pro Tip: The “Afternoon Tea” service in business class is surprisingly excellent, so consider daytime flights rather than just the overnight options

Shanghai-bound travelers take note: China Eastern’s aggressive pricing strategy makes them one of the most affordable ways to reach China’s financial hub directly. This SkyTeam member has dramatically expanded its transpacific presence, now serving major North American cities like New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Toronto with surprisingly competitive fares.

Their recently upgraded Boeing 777-300ER fleet offers a much-improved experience over previous generations, with modern entertainment systems and better seat comfort in all cabins. Business Class features fully-flat beds that rivals more expensive carriers, often at prices $1,000-1,500 lower than comparable products on transpacific routes.

What gives China Eastern a distinct advantage is their dominant position at Shanghai Pudong, offering seamless connections throughout China and Asia. Their frequent promotions target price-sensitive travelers, with economy fares sometimes dipping below $650 round-trip from the US West Coast during sale periods.

Membership in the SkyTeam alliance creates valuable opportunities for Delta SkyMiles members and other alliance travelers to earn and redeem miles. While service standards have historically lagged behind Asia’s premium carriers, recent investments in crew training and service protocols have yielded notable improvements. 

• Read next: Cheapest Flights from Vancouver
• You may also like: Best Airlines to Fly to Europe
• For more reading: Best Airlines to Fly to Australia
• Keep reading: Picture-Perfect Spots to Visit in Shanghai
• Also worth reading: Beautiful Places to Visit in China

6. 🇺🇸 American Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Los Angeles (LAX), Chicago (ORD)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, Flagship First (select domestic routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: AAdvantage, part of oneworld alliance
• ☕ Perks: Non-stop options from major US cities, strong domestic network, good premium economy
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book connecting flights to secondary Chinese cities on partner airlines like Japan Airlines for a much better experience than domestic Chinese carriers

Surprised to see a US carrier on this list? Don’t be. American Airlines has quietly upped its China game, becoming a solid contender for travelers who value convenience and loyalty perks. If you’re starting from somewhere like Nashville, Omaha, or dozens of other smaller cities, AA’s massive domestic network means you can reach Beijing or Shanghai with just one connection.

Those dreaded transpacific flights feel considerably less painful aboard American’s Boeing 787 Dreamliners, which now serve most China routes. The higher cabin pressure and humidity levels actually make a noticeable difference in how you feel after 13+ hours in the air. Plus, their Premium Economy sweet spot hits that perfect middle ground between “my legs are cramping” and “I can’t afford to eat for a month after booking this ticket.”

The real magic happens if you’ve been hoarding AAdvantage miles. Web Special awards can be absolute steals, sometimes letting you fly round-trip to China for just 60,000 miles in economy or 120,000 in business. Compare that to the cash prices (often $1,000+ and $4,000+ respectively), and you’re looking at some serious value.

AA runs sales to China more frequently than many people realize, with fares occasionally dipping below $700 round-trip from West Coast cities. When you add everything up—familiar service, extensive connections, free checked bag, and those AAdvantage possibilities—American makes a surprisingly strong case for your China travel dollars.

• Read next: Cheapest Places to Fly from Dallas
• You may also like: Cheapest Places to Fly from Chicago
• For more reading: Surreal Places to Experience in Xinjiang

7. 🇨🇳 Xiamen Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Xiamen (XMN), Fuzhou (FOC), Hangzhou (HGH)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Egret Miles, part of SkyTeam alliance
• ☕ Perks: Stellar safety record, friendly service, excellent value for money
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Request the seafood meals on flights from Xiamen, featuring the city’s famous local cuisine that’s significantly better than standard airline food

Ever heard of Xiamen Airlines? This hidden gem might be China’s best-kept aviation secret. Flying under the radar compared to state-owned giants, this SkyTeam alliance member delivers surprisingly polished service that consistently earns passenger praise.

From North American gateways including Los Angeles, New York, and Vancouver, Xiamen’s sleek Boeing 787 Dreamliners offer direct service not just to Beijing and Shanghai, but also to less-served destinations like Xiamen and Fuzhou. This opens up China’s beautiful southeast coast and provides easier access to Taiwan without the congestion of major hubs.

What sets this carrier apart is the genuine warmth of service that feels increasingly rare in modern air travel. Flight attendants actually smile and mean it. Plus, the predominantly new fleet features thoughtfully designed cabins with better-than-average legroom in economy (around 32-33 inches) and a solid business class product with lie-flat beds where every passenger gets direct aisle access.

Pricing consistently undercuts larger competitors, with transpacific fares often $100-200 lower than state-owned airlines and $300-500 below premium carriers. For travelers connecting to Southeast Asia, Xiamen offers excellent value on fifth-freedom routes between various Asian cities. The Egret Miles program provides standard SkyTeam benefits, with particularly good redemption rates on regional flights within Asia. 

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to Bangkok

8. 🇭🇰 Cathay Pacific

• 🏠 Hub: Hong Kong (HKG)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Cathay, part of oneworld alliance
• ☕ Perks: Exceptional service, excellent premium cabins, smooth Hong Kong connections
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book their “fanfares” deals released every Tuesday, offering steep discounts on premium cabins to mainland China via Hong Kong

Cathay Pacific delivers Hong Kong elegance to China travel, creating a premium experience that’s worth the potential detour. For many frequent flyers, routing through Hong Kong isn’t a compromise but a deliberate choice to enjoy some of the best service in the sky.

Their Business Class cabin strikes the perfect balance between privacy and openness with comfortable fully-flat beds that actually let you sleep. Everything feels thoughtfully designed, from the intuitive seat controls to the sensible storage spaces for all your gadgets. First class takes luxury to another level if you can swing it, with caviar service and restaurant-quality dining that makes the journey as memorable as the destination.

Hong Kong’s airport works brilliantly as a gateway to mainland China, with frequent connections to over 20 Chinese cities on Cathay’s regional jets. The lounges in Hong Kong are genuinely worth arriving early for, with The Wing and The Pier offering excellent food, shower suites, and relaxation areas that reset your body clock during long journeys.

The Cathay loyalty program connects seamlessly with oneworld partners for flights to and within China. Smart travelers look for their weekly “fanfares” promotions that slash prices on select routes, sometimes offering business class for close to premium economy prices. 

9. 🇬🇧 British Airways

• 🏠 Hub: London Heathrow (LHR), London Gatwick (LGW)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy (World Traveller), Premium Economy (World Traveller Plus), Business (Club World), First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Executive Club (Avios), part of oneworld alliance
• ☕ Perks: Extensive global connections, good premium economy, excellent Avios redemption options
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Look for their “business class upgrade for two” promotions that periodically offer substantially discounted premium travel to China when booking for couples

Think British Airways is just for London trips? Think again. This iconic carrier offers surprisingly good value to China, particularly for travelers prioritizing schedule convenience and premium cabin experiences.

From its massive Heathrow hub, BA connects to Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong with easy onward connections throughout China on partner airlines. The real advantage comes for travelers originating from smaller North American cities, with extensive transatlantic coverage, you can often reach China with just one connection through London rather than multiple domestic hops plus a transpacific flight.

BA’s refreshed Club Suite business class has dramatically improved their premium offering, featuring enclosed suites with direct aisle access for all passengers. During seasonal sales, business class fares to China can drop below $3,500 round-trip from East Coast cities, which is a relative bargain for a quality flat-bed product. Economy and Premium Economy regularly see competitive sales, especially during shoulder seasons.

For perks, the flexible Avios program shines with creative redemption options for China trips. The “part-pay with Avios” feature lets you use points to discount cash fares by any amount you choose, creating value even for travelers with modest point balances. Savvy bookers also leverage BA’s generous stopover policies for free London breaks on the way to China.

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to London

10. 🇸🇬 Singapore Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Singapore Changi (SIN)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First, Suites (select routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: KrisFlyer, part of Star Alliance
• ☕ Perks: World-class service standards, excellent transit experience, exceptional premium cabins
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Request the “Book the Cook” meal service at least 24 hours before departure to access special dishes not available on the regular menu

Consistency is the ultimate luxury in air travel, and nobody delivers it more reliably than Singapore Airlines. This industry benchmark manages to make even Economy passengers feel special on routes connecting North America and Europe to multiple Chinese destinations via their spectacular Singapore hub.

SQ’s legendary service culture elevates every cabin class with thoughtful touches that competitors simply don’t match. The crew consistently provide attentive, anticipatory service that makes the long journey to China substantially more pleasant. The food? Actually delicious, with regionally inspired dishes that you’ll look forward to rather than endure.

The newest Airbus A350 and Boeing 777-300ER aircraft serving China routes feature some of the industry’s most thoughtfully designed seats. Economy offers above-average width and pitch with thoughtful details like foot bars and multi-directional headrests. Business Class wows with wide seats that convert to fully-flat beds, while First Class and Suites deliver private accommodations that rival luxury hotels.

Value-conscious travelers watch eagerly for the monthly “Spontaneous Escapes” promotions, which discount select routes by 30% when using KrisFlyer miles. The KrisFlyer program partners with virtually every major credit card points currency, making these redemptions surprisingly accessible even for occasional travelers.

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to Singapore

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Best Airlines to Fly to China

If you’re still curious about what airlines fly to China, here are some common questions that might help you decide.

What is the best airline to fly to China?

Choosing the best airline to China often depends on individual preferences and priorities. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

1. Hainan Airlines: Known for its luxurious five-star service, it offers a top-tier experience with amenities like gourmet meals and spacious seating.
2. Air China: As the national flag carrier, it provides extensive direct routes from numerous global cities and showcases Chinese hospitality.
3. Cathay Pacific: Based in Hong Kong, it offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western amenities, with layover options to explore the vibrant city.
4. Singapore Airlines: Renowned for its in-flight dining and service, it’s a top choice for those who appreciate gourmet meals and the latest entertainment.
5. China Southern: One of the largest airlines in Asia, it offers affordable options without compromising on service quality.

Can you fly direct to China from the U.S.?

Several airlines offer direct flights from the U.S. to China. Travel between the two countries has never been more convenient!

1. American Airlines: Flies directly from hubs like Dallas and Los Angeles to Beijing and Shanghai.
2. Air China: Connects major U.S. cities, including San Francisco and New York, directly to Beijing.
3. China Eastern: Offers non-stop flights from cities like Los Angeles to Shanghai, with modern aircraft and amenities.
4. Hainan Airlines: Known for its luxury services, it connects cities like Boston and Seattle directly to Beijing.
5. Xiamen Airlines: Provides seamless connections from Los Angeles to Xiamen, a coastal city known for its scenic beauty.

What is the cheapest month to fly to China?

Typically, the off-peak seasons, which are late winter (February) and late autumn (November), tend to offer more affordable flights to China. However, it’s always a good idea to monitor flight prices and deals regularly.

What airlines fly out to China?

Numerous airlines fly to China, both from international destinations and within the country. Here’s a list of some major airlines that operate flights to and from China:

Chinese Airlines:

1. Air China – The flag carrier and one of the major airlines of China, with its hub in Beijing.
2. China Eastern Airlines – Based in Shanghai, it’s one of China’s major airlines.
3. China Southern Airlines – One of the world’s largest airlines by passengers carried, headquartered in Guangzhou.
4. Hainan Airlines – Based in Haikou and Beijing, it’s known for its high-quality service.
5. Shanghai Airlines – A subsidiary of China Eastern Airlines.
6. Shenzhen Airlines – Based in Shenzhen and a member of the Star Alliance.
7. XiamenAir – Formerly known as Xiamen Airlines, based in Xiamen, Fujian Province.
8. Sichuan Airlines – Based in Chengdu, Sichuan Province.
9. Spring Airlines – A low-cost carrier based in Shanghai.

International Airlines with Flights to China:

1. United Airlines – U.S.-based airline with several routes to China.
2. Delta Air Lines – Another major U.S. carrier with routes to China.
3. American Airlines – U.S. airline with flights to major Chinese cities.
4. Cathay Pacific – Hong Kong-based airline with extensive routes to mainland China.
5. Singapore Airlines – Operates several routes to China from Singapore.
6. Korean Air & Asiana Airlines – South Korean airlines with numerous flights to China.
7. Japan Airlines & All Nippon Airways (ANA) – Japanese carriers with multiple routes to China.
8. Qantas – Australian airline with flights to major Chinese cities.
9. Lufthansa, Air France, British Airways, and many other European carriers also operate flights to China.

Do any airlines offer layover options when flying to China?

Layovers can enhance your travel experience, offering a glimpse of another city. Here are airlines that provide intriguing layover options:

1. Cathay Pacific: Layovers in Hong Kong come with options to explore the city’s iconic skyline and culinary delights.
2. Singapore Airlines: Stop in Singapore and take advantage of layover packages that include hotel stays, city tours, and access to local attractions.
3. Qatar Airways: Experience a taste of the Middle East with layovers in Doha, exploring its modern architecture and traditional souks.
4. Emirates: Dubai stopovers offer a blend of luxury shopping, desert adventures, and cultural experiences.

Can I use points and miles to book a flight to China?

Absolutely! Many major airlines offer loyalty programs that allow you to redeem points or miles for flights to China. For instance, if you’re a member of the British Airways Executive Club, you can use Avios points to book a flight to China. This often comes with the added benefit of choosing from partner airlines within the Oneworld alliance.

Which airlines fly direct from the UK to China?

Choosing the best flights from the UK to China has never been easier, thanks to several airlines offering direct routes.

1. British Airways: Connects London Heathrow directly to major Chinese cities like Beijing and Shanghai, with daily flights and premium services.
2. Air China: Offers daily non-stop routes from London to Beijing, with a fleet that includes the latest aircraft models.
3. China Eastern: Provides direct connections from London to Shanghai, ensuring passengers experience Chinese hospitality from the moment they board.
4. Hainan Airlines: A luxury option that links Manchester to Beijing, offering travelers in the North a convenient route to China.
5. China Southern: With its hub in Guangzhou, it offers UK travelers a chance to explore southern China with direct flights from London.

What is the best way to travel from US to China?

Traveling from the U.S. to China is relatively straightforward, with several options available depending on your preferences, budget, and starting location. Here’s a guide to the best ways to travel from the U.S. to China:

1. By Air:
   • Direct Flights: Many major U.S. cities offer direct flights to key Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong. Airlines like Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, Hainan Airlines, and American carriers like United, Delta, and American Airlines operate these routes.
   • Connecting Flights: If you’re not located near a major U.S. hub or if you’re traveling to a less common destination in China, you might have a layover in another Asian city like Seoul, Tokyo, or Taipei.
   • Choosing an Airport: China is vast, so choose an airport that’s closest to your final destination or one that offers convenient domestic connections.
2. By Sea:
   • Cruises: Some cruises sail from the U.S. to China, often as part of a more extensive Asia-Pacific itinerary. These cruises can offer a luxurious and leisurely way to travel, but they take much longer than flying and are typically more expensive.

Why is flying to China so expensive?

Flying to China can be expensive for several reasons. Here are some reasons why flights to China might be on the pricier side:

1. Distance and Fuel Costs: For travelers coming from distant locations, such as North America, Europe, or Oceania, the sheer distance to China can result in higher fuel costs, which are often passed on to the consumer.
2. Airport and Landing Fees: Airports in China might charge higher landing and operational fees, which can increase the overall ticket price.
3. Taxes and Duties: Some countries impose higher taxes on international flights, which can contribute to the overall cost.
4. Demand and Supply: China is a major global business hub and a popular tourist destination. High demand, especially during peak seasons or major events, can drive up prices. Additionally, if there’s limited seat availability on direct routes, prices are likely to rise.
5. Limited Promotions: While airlines often offer promotions or discounts for certain destinations, there might be fewer promotional fares available for popular routes to China.
6. Economic Factors: Currency fluctuations, inflation rates, and other economic factors in both the departure and destination countries can influence flight prices.
7. Operational Costs: Airlines have to consider various operational costs, including crew wages, maintenance, and services, which can be higher for long-haul flights.
8. Political and Regulatory Factors: Political tensions or trade disputes can sometimes affect flight operations and prices.
9. Route Monopolies: On certain routes, especially less popular ones, there might be limited competition among airlines. Fewer airlines operating on a route can lead to higher prices.

Wrapping up the Best Airlines to Fly to China

Traveling to China presents an opportunity to explore a nation rich in history, culture, and modern marvels. With a plethora of airlines offering routes to this vast country, selecting the perfect carrier can be a task in itself. From luxury suites in the sky to budget-friendly options without compromising on comfort, there’s an airline tailored to every traveler’s needs.

Finding the best deals requires a mix of flexibility, research, and timing. Subscribing to airline newsletters and setting up fare alerts can keep you informed about promotional offers and flash sales. Additionally, consider traveling during off-peak seasons or mid-week for more competitive fares. Loyalty programs are another avenue to explore; accruing points or miles can lead to significant savings or even complimentary flights in the future.

In the end, the journey to China is not just about reaching a destination. It’s about the experience, the service, and the memories created en route. With the right airline, your adventure begins the moment you step on board, setting the tone for an unforgettable exploration of the Middle Kingdom.