China United Airlines is a low-cost carrier based in Beijing, China. Founded in 1986, it originally served as a military-owned airline before transitioning to a commercial entity. It operates domestic and regional flights, primarily out of Beijing Daxing International Airport. The airline is a subsidiary of China Eastern Airlines and is known for offering affordable air travel options within China.
Services
- In-Flight Entertainment : Offers a selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games through personal screens on select flights.
- Economy Class : Provides comfortable seating with a standard pitch, complimentary snacks, and beverages on all flights.
- Frequent Flyer Program : The "Eastern Miles" program allows passengers to earn and redeem miles for flights and other benefits.
- Online Check-In : Available 24 hours before departure, allowing passengers to choose seats and print boarding passes in advance.
- Baggage Allowance : Generous baggage policy, allowing one free checked bag and a carry-on for economy class passengers.
Expriences
- Jet Li : Praised the airline's punctuality and efficient service during a domestic flight from Beijing to Shanghai.
- Jackie Chan : Noted the comfortable seating and friendly cabin crew on a trip from Beijing to Guangzhou.
- Gong Li : Appreciated the convenient scheduling and smooth boarding process on a regional flight within China.
Interesting Facts
- Military Origins : China United Airlines was initially operated by the People's Liberation Army Air Force.
- Parent Company : It is a wholly-owned subsidiary of China Eastern Airlines, one of the largest airlines in China.
- Beijing Daxing Hub : Primarily operates out of the modern Beijing Daxing International Airport.
- Fleet : Consists mainly of Boeing 737 aircraft, suitable for short to medium-haul flights.
- Low-Cost Model : Focuses on providing affordable travel options, often offering competitive fares.
Frequent Flyers
- Jack Ma : Alibaba founder, values the airline's efficient domestic connectivity.
- Wang Jianlin : Dalian Wanda Group chairman, appreciates the punctuality for business travel.
- Li Ka-shing : Hong Kong business magnate, uses the airline for regional trips within China.
- Ma Huateng : Tencent founder, frequently flies for business engagements across Chinese cities.
- Lei Jun : Xiaomi CEO, commends the airline's service and convenience for frequent business travel.
Myths
- Safety Concerns : Some believe it is less safe due to its low-cost model, but it adheres to strict safety regulations.
- Limited Destinations : Misconception that it only serves a few cities, while it covers extensive domestic routes.
- Poor Service : Assumption that low-cost means low-quality service, yet it receives positive reviews for customer service.
Offbeat Destinations
- Harbin : Known for its ice and snow festival, offering a unique winter experience.
- Urumqi : Gateway to Xinjiang, famous for its diverse culture and stunning landscapes.
- Lhasa : Capital of Tibet, renowned for its spiritual significance and breathtaking scenery.
- Guilin : Famous for its karst mountains and the Li River, offering picturesque views.
- Hohhot : Capital of Inner Mongolia, known for its grasslands and nomadic culture.
- Sanya : Popular tropical destination on Hainan Island, known for its beaches and resorts.
- Xiamen : Coastal city famous for its colonial architecture and beautiful islands.
- Dali : Ancient city in Yunnan, known for its well-preserved old town and Bai culture.
- Lijiang : UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its ancient town and Naxi culture.
- Zhangjiajie : Known for its stunning sandstone pillars, which inspired the floating mountains in the movie "Avatar".
Useful Resources
Awards
- Best Low-Cost Airline in China : Recognized for its affordability and service quality.
- Top 10 Airlines in China : Listed among the top airlines in China for several consecutive years.
- Best On-Time Performance : Awarded for maintaining high punctuality rates.