skyceirge

China Eastern Airlines

China Eastern Airlines is one of the largest airlines in China, headquartered in Shanghai and operating an extensive network of domestic and international routes. Known for its commitment to safety, comfort, and service, China Eastern offers passengers a variety of services and policies to ensure a smooth travel experience. This comprehensive 3000-word article details the airline’s major policies including unaccompanied minor travel, baggage rules, visa services, check-in procedures, pet travel, cancellation and refund options, and more.

China Eastern Baggage Policy

  1. Unaccompanied Minor Policy

China Eastern Airlines provides specialized services for minors traveling alone to ensure their safety and comfort throughout the journey.

Eligibility:

  • Children aged 5 to 12 years are required to use the unaccompanied minor service.
  • Teenagers aged 12 to 15 years may use the service optionally upon request.

Booking Procedure:

  • Must be arranged at least 24 hours before departure.
  • Requires submission of guardian contact details and ID verification.

Services Provided:

  • Dedicated ground staff to assist during check-in and boarding.
  • Escort during transfers and immigration formalities.
  • Flight attendants monitor the child during the flight.
  • Hand-over to an authorized person at the destination.

Fees:

  • Fees vary depending on route and service level but are generally reasonable.
  1. Baggage Policy

China Eastern Airlines applies both weight and piece concepts based on route and class of travel.

Checked Baggage Allowance:

  • Domestic Flights:
    • Economy Class: 20 kg
    • Business Class: 30 kg
    • First Class: 40 kg
  • International Flights (Piece Concept):
    • Economy Class: 2 pieces, up to 23 kg each
    • Business/First Class: 2 pieces, up to 32 kg each

Cabin Baggage (Carry-On):

  • Economy Class: 1 piece up to 10 kg
  • Business/First Class: 2 pieces up to 10 kg each

Prohibited Items:

  • Dangerous goods, flammable materials, and sharp objects are strictly banned.
  • Power banks over 160Wh are not allowed.
  1. Extra Baggage Policy

Passengers exceeding the free baggage allowance can purchase extra baggage:

Purchase Channels:

  • Online via official website or mobile app
  • Airport counter

Rates:

  • Based on route and excess weight per kilogram or per extra piece
  • Discounts often available for pre-paid baggage online

Oversized/Odd Baggage:

  • Sports equipment, musical instruments, and large items are accepted with advance notification
  1. What You Can Carry Onboard

Permitted Items:

  • Laptop, camera, reading material, small handbag
  • Infant food and diapers (if traveling with a baby)

Restricted Items:

  • Liquids in containers over 100 ml
  • Aerosols, gels, and pastes not in transparent bags

Duty-Free Shopping:

  • Permitted items bought post-security can be brought onboard in addition to carry-on allowance
  1. Visa and Travel Document Policy

While China Eastern does not issue visas, the airline assists travelers by providing necessary documentation and travel itineraries for visa applications.

Transit Without Visa (TWOV):

  • Available in cities like Shanghai and Beijing for qualified travelers

Required Documents:

  • Valid passport
  • Applicable visa (if required)
  • Confirmed return or onward ticket
  1. Check-In and Check-Out Policy

Online Check-In:

  • Available 48 to 2 hours before departure
  • Allows seat selection and mobile boarding pass

Airport Check-In:

  • Domestic: Opens 90 minutes before departure
  • International: Opens 3 hours before, closes 45-60 minutes prior

Check-Out (Deplaning & Arrival):

  • Immigration and customs procedures must be completed at the first port of entry
  • Baggage claim areas are clearly marked
  1. Major Routes and Destinations

China Eastern Airlines operates over 1,000 routes covering more than 170 countries and regions.

Domestic Network:

  • Shanghai, Beijing, Xi’an, Kunming, Chengdu, Guangzhou

International Routes:

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

In-Cabin Travel:

  • Not permitted for pets

Checked Baggage:

  • Pets can travel as checked baggage on select aircraft types
  • Must be in an IATA-approved crate
  • Health certificate and vaccination documents required

Cargo Travel:

  • Available through China Eastern Cargo for large or unaccompanied pets

Fees:

  • Charged based on crate weight and route
  1. Cancellation Policy

Voluntary Cancellations:

  • Permitted via website, mobile app, or customer service
  • Fees apply depending on fare class and route

Non-Refundable Fares:

  • Only unused airport taxes may be refunded

Involuntary Cancellations:

  • Full refund or alternative flight offered
  • Applies during weather disruptions, strikes, or technical failures
  1. Refund Policy

Request Procedure:

  • Via website, ticketing office, or travel agent
  • Refunds are processed to original payment method

Timeframe:

  • 7 to 20 business days depending on payment method

Partial Refunds:

  • May apply in case of partially used tickets
  1. Date Change and Rebooking Policy

Voluntary Changes:

  • Change fees apply based on fare rules
  • Fare differences must be paid if applicable

How to Change:

  • Online via “Manage Booking”
  • Through customer support or travel agent

Same-Day Flight Change:

  • Allowed on some domestic flights for a small fee
  1. In-Flight Entertainment and Amenities

Entertainment System:

  • Available on most international flights
  • Includes movies, TV shows, games, music

Wi-Fi:

  • Available on select aircraft with tiered pricing

Meals:

  • Complimentary meals on medium and long-haul flights
  • Special meals available upon request (24-48 hours prior)
  1. Special Assistance Services

Passengers with Disabilities:

  • Wheelchair services
  • Priority boarding and assistance

Medical Cases:

  • MEDIF form may be required
  • Onboard oxygen and stretchers available upon request

Pregnant Travelers:

  • Up to 32 weeks: No certificate required
  • 33–36 weeks: Doctor’s certificate mandatory
  • Beyond 36 weeks: Travel not permitted
  1. Loyalty Program – Eastern Miles

Membership Tiers:

  • Base, Silver, Gold, and Platinum

Earning Miles:

  • On flights, hotels, car rentals, and credit card partners

Redeeming Miles:

  • Flight upgrades, free tickets, partner services

Family Accounts:

  • Combine miles for family use
  1. Travel Insurance

Available During Booking:

  • Optional add-on for medical, baggage, and trip disruption coverage

Coverage Includes:

  • Flight delays
  • Medical emergencies
  • Lost or damaged baggage
  • Trip cancellation

Conclusion

China Eastern Airlines provides a wide range of policies designed to cater to the needs of every traveler. Whether you’re flying solo, with pets, or managing a group booking, understanding these guidelines will make your journey smoother and more predictable. From baggage allowances to unaccompanied minor assistance, and from visa support to cancellation options, China Eastern maintains a well-rounded set of policies aligned with international standards. Always verify current policies directly through the airline’s website or customer service to account for any updates or special circumstances.