Domestic Flights
in China
How to book domestic flights, use your passport details correctly, and prepare for airport security in China.
Quick advice
Must know before flying
Quick summary
The most important domestic flight basics for first-time visitors.
Book early
Prices usually rise closer to the departure date, especially around holidays and busy travel periods.
Trip.com is easiest
Trip.com is usually the easiest option for foreign visitors because of English support and international card payment.
Use your passport name exactly
Enter your name exactly as it appears on your passport. Middle names can sometimes cause booking or check-in issues.
Power banks go in carry-on
Lithium batteries and power banks must be carried in hand luggage, not checked luggage.
Booking your flight
Choose a booking channel that matches your language, payment, and support needs.
Trip.com
Best for English support, clearer booking flow, and smoother international card payment.
Qunar / Ctrip
Chinese platforms may show more local options or deals, but they are harder if you do not read Chinese.
Airline websites
Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, and other airline websites can be useful for direct booking or managing changes.
Getting to and from the airport
Before booking a taxi, check whether your airport has an airport express, metro, tram, light rail, or shuttle bus connection.
Airport express or metro
Many major cities have airport express rail, metro lines, or light rail connections to the airport.
Light rail or local rail
Some airports are connected by tram, light rail, or city rail. These can be cheaper and more predictable than taxis.
Airport shuttle buses
Airport buses can be useful if your hotel or district is not close to a metro or airport express station.
Taxi or ride-hailing
Use taxis or DiDi when you have heavy luggage, arrive late, or public transport has stopped running.
At the airport
Domestic airports in China can be busy. Give yourself enough time for check-in, security, and boarding.
Check-in
Counters often close around 45 minutes before departure. Arrive early enough for check-in, bag drop, and security.
Security
Laptops, umbrellas, cameras, and some electronics may need separate screening.
Liquids
The standard 100 ml rule usually applies for carry-on liquids.
Batteries
Lithium batteries and power banks must go in carry-on luggage, not checked baggage.