How to Book Domestic Flights in China
Published: April 29, 2026
Short Answer
Booking domestic flights in China is straightforward using Trip.com (Ctrip), which has a polished English interface and accepts international cards. Prices are generally affordable -- most domestic routes cost between 300-1500 RMB ($40-$200 USD) depending on distance and timing. You'll need your passport number at booking and the physical passport at check-in.
Beijing Daxing International Airport terminal interior
Deep Dive
Where to Book
The go-to platform for foreigners is Trip.com (the international version of Ctrip). It has excellent English support, takes Visa/Mastercard, and handles e-tickets seamlessly. Other options include:
- Ctrip (携程) -- the Chinese-language parent of Trip.com, sometimes has slightly lower prices but requires Chinese reading skills
- Qunar (去哪儿) -- another popular aggregator, Chinese-only interface
- Fliggy (飞猪) -- Alibaba's travel platform, integrated with Alipay
- Airline direct websites -- China Southern, China Eastern, Air China, Hainan Airlines, and Spring Airlines all have English versions
Pro tip: Compare prices across Trip.com and the airline's own website. Budget carriers like Spring Airlines (春秋航空) often have flash sales that only appear on their own app.
Popular Domestic Routes
China's most frequently flown routes include:
- Beijing -- Shanghai (2h 15min, multiple flights hourly)
- Beijing -- Chengdu (2h 45min)
- Shanghai -- Guangzhou (2h 30min)
- Shanghai -- Kunming (3h 15min, gateway to Yunnan)
- Beijing -- Xi'an (1h 50min)
- Shenzhen -- Chengdu (2h 40min)
Prices fluctuate significantly. Book 2-4 weeks in advance for the best rates. Flying on Tuesday or Wednesday is typically cheaper than weekends.
Baggage Rules
This is where many travelers get tripped up:
- Economy class usually includes 20kg checked luggage on full-service carriers
- Budget airlines (Spring Airlines, 9 Air, Lucky Air) may only include 7-10kg or charge extra for all checked bags -- always verify when booking
- Carry-on is typically limited to one bag, 5kg max, fitting in overhead bins
- Oversized luggage (skis, musical instruments) requires advance notice
ID Requirements
You must use your passport to book and fly. Chinese ID cards are for citizens only. Key points:
- Enter your passport number exactly as it appears -- one wrong digit means you cannot board
- Bring the physical passport to the airport; photos on your phone are not accepted
- Some booking platforms ask for a Chinese phone number -- use your China SIM or ask your hotel to help
Airport Tips
- Arrive 2 hours before domestic flights (1.5h at smaller airports)
- Security is thorough -- liquids over 100ml are confiscated, and lighters are banned
- Most airports have good food courts past security, often with recognizable chains
- Airport express trains connect major cities' airports to downtown (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu all have excellent rail links)
- Flight delays are common, especially during summer thunderstorm season (June-August) and winter fog (December-February). Download the airline's app to track real-time status