Hainan Airlines
Airlines Reviews
Hainan Airlines Reviews & Ratings: Is It the Right Airline for You?
Hainan Airlines is the largest privately owned airline in the People’s Republic of China, and it frequently stands out as the crown jewel of Chinese aviation. It is one of the few airlines globally to maintain a prestigious 5-Star Skytrax rating, recognized for its impeccable safety record, modern fleet, and high-quality onboard service.
Whether you are flying domestically within China or connecting internationally through its major hubs in Beijing or Haikou, Hainan Airlines offers a premium experience that often undercuts European and American carriers on price.
Hainan Airlines at a Glance
In-Flight Experience: What to Expect Onboard
Hainan Airlines blends traditional Chinese aesthetic elements with highly polished, modern service.
Economy Class
Hainan’s Economy features comfortable seating with personal entertainment screens on all long-haul widebody aircraft (Boeing 787s and Airbus A330s). They provide full complimentary meal services, often offering a choice between a Western dish and a high-quality, authentic Chinese dish. Amenity kits (with eye masks and earplugs) are frequently provided on long-haul routes.
Business Class
Business Class is where Hainan truly earns its 5-star rating. Most of their long-haul fleet features excellent reverse-herringbone lie-flat seats providing direct aisle access. The service includes turndown service with luxury bedding, designer pajamas, and exceptional multi-course meals served on fine porcelain.
Hainan Airlines Baggage Allowance & Policies
Hainan Airlines uses the Piece Concept for flights to North America, and the Weight Concept for many other international and domestic routes.
| Fare Class | Carry-On Allowance | Checked Baggage (North America Routes) | Checked Baggage (Europe/Asia – Varies) |
| Economy | 1 piece (Up to 10kg) | 2 pieces (Up to 23kg each) | Usually 1 or 2 pieces (Up to 23kg each) |
| Business Class | 2 pieces (Up to 10kg each) | 2 pieces (Up to 32kg each) | 2 pieces (Up to 32kg each) |
2026 Transit Tip: If you are transiting through China to a third country (e.g., London to Sydney via Beijing) on Hainan Airlines, ensure you check the current Chinese Transit Visa Exemption rules, which allow you to leave the airport and explore the city visa-free for up to 144 hours!
Customer Service & Reliability
Pros & Cons of Flying with Hainan Airlines
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Have You Flown with Hainan Airlines?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Hainan Airlines
Is Hainan Airlines a 5-star airline?
Yes, Hainan Airlines has consecutively been awarded a 5-Star rating by Skytrax for its outstanding onboard service, cleanliness, and premium cabin offerings.
Does Hainan Airlines include checked baggage?
Yes. On almost all international flights, standard Economy tickets include at least one (and often two) 23kg checked bags for free.
What alliance is Hainan Airlines in?
Hainan Airlines is not part of Oneworld, SkyTeam, or Star Alliance. However, their Fortune Wings Club frequent flyer program has strategic partnerships with several airlines, including Etihad Airways and Virgin Australia.
Disclaimer: All information, policies, and details presented on this page are gathered from publicly available resources and are subject to change. Please verify directly with the airline before booking.