1. Baggage Policy

Air China offers a generous baggage allowance, but it varies depending on the route and class of service.

1.1 Checked Baggage Allowance:

• Economy Class: Typically 1 piece of 23 kg (50 lbs) on most international routes.
• Premium Economy Class: 2 pieces of 23 kg each.
• Business Class: 2 pieces of 32 kg each.
• First Class: 3 pieces of 32 kg each.
• Domestic Flights: Usually one piece of 20 kg for Economy.

1.2 Carry-On Baggage:

• Economy Class: 1 piece up to 5 kg (11 lbs).
• Business and First Class: 2 pieces up to 8 kg (17 lbs) total.
• Size Restriction: Maximum 55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm.

1.3 Excess Baggage Charges:

• Charges depend on the route and weight. You can pre-purchase extra baggage online for a discount.

2. Unaccompanied Minor Policy

Air China provides special services for children flying alone.

• Age Requirements:
  • Children aged 5 to 12 years must travel as unaccompanied minors.
  • Children 12 to 18 years may travel alone but can opt for the unaccompanied minor service.
• Booking:
  • Must be arranged at least 72 hours before departure.
  • Limited availability per flight.
• Service Includes:
  • Escort by airline staff at departure and arrival.
  • Priority boarding and assistance during connections.
• Fees:
  • A service fee is applicable and varies by route.

3. Pet Policy

Air China allows pets to travel in the cargo hold or as checked baggage.

3.1 In Cabin:

• Not allowed, except for service dogs.

3.2 As Checked Baggage:

• Dogs, cats, and small household birds.
• Must be in an IATA-approved pet crate.
• Weight (including crate) should not exceed 32 kg.

3.3 Service Animals:

• Allowed free of charge in the cabin with prior approval.

3.4 Booking Requirements:

• Notify Air China at least 72 hours before departure.
• Health and vaccination certificates required.

4. Cancellation Policy

Air China’s cancellation policy depends on the type of ticket purchased.

4.1 Refundable Tickets:

• Eligible for a full or partial refund minus cancellation fees.

4.2 Non-Refundable Tickets:

• Only taxes and fees may be refunded.

4.3 Cancellation Charges:

• Varies by route, class, and timing of cancellation.
• Fees are higher for last-minute cancellations.

4.4 Cancellation Process:

• Via official website, customer service, or travel agent.

5. Refund Policy

Refund requests are processed based on fare conditions.

• Timeline: Usually processed within 7–20 business days.
• Method: Refunds are credited to the original form of payment.
• Non-Refundable Fares: Taxes and airport fees may be refunded.

6. Date Change Policy

Air China allows date changes under specific conditions.

• Flexibility: Depends on the ticket fare rules.
• Fees: Apply for most economy fares unless specified otherwise.
• How to Change:
  • Online, at the airport, or through customer support.
• No-Show: Missing a flight without changing in advance may result in the loss of the ticket.

7. Check-In Policy

Air China offers multiple options for check-in.

7.1 Online Check-In:

• Available from 24 to 3 hours before departure.

7.2 Mobile Check-In:

• Through the Air China app.

7.3 Airport Check-In:

• Counters open 2.5 to 3 hours prior to departure.
• Closes 45–60 minutes before flight.

7.4 Required Documents:

• Passport, visa (if applicable), and ticket or e-ticket confirmation.

8. What You Can Carry On Board

Air China allows the following items onboard:

• Personal Item: Handbag or laptop bag.
• Liquids: Must follow the 100 ml rule in a 1-liter transparent zip bag.
• Prohibited Items: Sharp objects, flammable items, and lithium batteries over allowed limits.

9. Visa and Travel Documentation

It is the passenger’s responsibility to ensure all travel documentation is valid.

• Visa Requirements: Vary by destination.
• China Visa-Free Transit: Transit passengers from certain countries may stay visa-free for up to 144 hours in cities like Beijing and Shanghai.

10. Major Routes Covered

Air China covers an extensive range of destinations.

10.1 Domestic Network:

• Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Guangzhou, Xi’an, Shenzhen, and more.

10.2 International Destinations:

• Asia: Tokyo, Seoul, Bangkok, Singapore.
• Europe: London, Paris, Frankfurt, Rome, Madrid.
• North America: New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Vancouver, Toronto.
• Oceania: Sydney, Melbourne.

11. In-Flight Services and Entertainment

Air China offers modern amenities onboard:

• In-Flight Entertainment (IFE):
  • Movies, music, games, and TV shows.
• Wi-Fi:
  • Available on select long-haul aircraft.
• Meals:
  • Complimentary meals and beverages.
  • Special meal requests available if ordered in advance.

12. Medical and Special Assistance

Air China provides services for travelers needing assistance.

12.1 Wheelchair Assistance:

• Request during booking or at least 48 hours before departure.

12.2 Medical Needs:

• Medical clearance and doctor’s certificate may be required.
• Portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) allowed with prior notice.

12.3 Expectant Mothers:

• Up to 36 weeks of pregnancy allowed with a certificate from a doctor.

13. Frequent Flyer Program

PhoenixMiles is Air China’s loyalty program.

• Benefits:
  • Earn miles on flights and partner purchases.
  • Redeem for free flights, upgrades, and more.
• Tiers:
  • Member, Silver, Gold, and Platinum levels.

14. Travel Insurance and Flight Protection

Air China offers optional travel insurance during booking.

• Coverage Includes:
  • Trip cancellation, medical emergencies, lost baggage.
• Providers:
  • Third-party insurance companies in partnership with Air China.

15. Customer Support and Complaints

Air China provides 24/7 support for passengers.

• Contact Options:
  • Phone, email, online chat.
  • Offices in major cities worldwide.
• Feedback Submission:
  • Available on their website for issues or compliments.

Conclusion

Air China offers a structured and passenger-friendly policy environment, whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally. With clear rules around baggage, cancellations, pets, and unaccompanied minors, the airline caters to a wide range of travelers. Understanding these policies in advance will help you avoid surprises and enjoy a smooth and comfortable journey.

For up-to-date information and detailed queries, always refer to the official Air China website or contact their customer support directly.