China Eastern Airlines stands as one of the pillars of Chinese aviation, connecting China to the world while maintaining a strong domestic network. Based in Shanghai, this major carrier has evolved from regional beginnings to become one of Asia’s largest airlines, playing a crucial role in China’s growing global connectivity.
Shanghai Roots: The History of China Eastern Airlines
China Eastern Airlines was established on June 25, 1988, as part of the reorganization of the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). Beginning as a regional carrier under the Civil Aviation Administration of China Huadong Administration, the airline has grown steadily through strategic acquisitions and expansions.
The 1990s marked a period of significant growth for China Eastern. In its first decade of operation, the airline grew quickly by making acquisitions and offering shares internationally. In 1997, the carrier raised capital by becoming listed on both the Hong Kong and New York Stock Exchanges, using much of these funds to facilitate fleet expansion and debt repayment.
The early 2000s brought further consolidation and growth. On June 11, 2009, it was announced that China Eastern Airlines would merge with Shanghai Airlines. The merger was completed in February 2010, with Shanghai Airlines becoming a wholly owned subsidiary while retaining its brand and livery. This strategic move strengthened China Eastern’s dominance in Shanghai, China’s financial hub. The airline further expanded its portfolio by acquiring China United Airlines in October 2010.
In June 2011, China Eastern (along with its subsidiary Shanghai Airlines) joined the SkyTeam alliance, enhancing its global connectivity and partnership network.
By the Numbers: China Eastern Airlines Stats
China Eastern Airlines has impressive operational statistics that demonstrate its significance in the aviation industry:
- Operates an extensive fleet of over 500 modern aircraft, making it one of the largest airlines in terms of fleet size
- As of 2021, the airline operated 261 self-owned passenger aircraft, 274 finance-leased aircraft, and 217 operating-leased aircraft
- Flies to approximately 215 destinations across Asia, Oceania, Africa, Europe, and North America
- In 2021, the airline reported operational revenue of 67,127 million RMB with total assets of 286,548 million RMB
- In 2022, China Eastern recorded an operating revenue of around 46.11 billion yuan, representing a drop from the previous year
- Employs tens of thousands of staff across its operations
- Ranks as China’s second-largest airline in terms of passenger traffic after China Southern Airlines
Quick Facts About China Eastern Airlines
- Headquarters: Changning, Shanghai, China
- IATA Code: MU
- CEO: Li Yangmin (as of 2023)
- Parent company: China Eastern Airlines Group
- Alliance membership: SkyTeam (joined June 21, 2011)
- Subsidiaries: Shanghai Airlines, China United Airlines
- Was the first Chinese airline to place an order with Airbus, with the A320 family serving as the backbone of its fleet
- Frequent flyer program: Eastern Miles, which allows passengers to earn and redeem miles on all SkyTeam member airlines
- Offers varied cabin classes including First Class (on select aircraft), Business Plus, Business Class, and Economy Class
- First Class is available on Airbus A350s and Boeing 777s, featuring flat beds, direct aisle access, and sliding doors
- Distinctive livery with predominantly white fuselage and tail featuring red and blue swallow-like design
Hub Cities: China Eastern’s Major Operations
China Eastern Airlines operates from several strategic hubs across China:
- Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) – Primary international hub
- Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) – Main domestic hub
- Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG)
- Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY)
- Nanjing Lukou International Airport (NKG)
- Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
- Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport (TAO)
- Wuhan Tianhe International Airport (WUH)
These hubs strategically cover different regions of China, allowing the airline to efficiently serve both domestic and international markets.
Contact Information
For passengers seeking assistance, China Eastern Airlines offers several contact options:
- Reservations (from China): 010-64681166
- Reservations (from US): 1-866-588-0825
- Reservations (from UK): +44-121-281-3380
- Website: www.ceair.com
- Mobile App: Available on iOS and Android
- Social Media: Present on WeChat, Weibo, Facebook, and Twitter
For business inquiries:
- Corporate Headquarters: China Eastern Airlines 2550 Hongqiao Road Changning District, Shanghai China
Looking to the Future
China Eastern Airlines continues to expand its presence both domestically and internationally. The airline is investing in fleet modernization with next-generation aircraft like the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner, enhancing both efficiency and passenger comfort.
The carrier is also strengthening its international presence, accelerating the pace of international expansion by increasing flight frequencies to international destinations. In recent years, China Eastern has launched direct flights from Shanghai to cities like Prague, Amsterdam, Madrid, and St. Petersburg. In November 2024, the airline further expanded its reach by launching a new Shanghai-Madrid-Lima route in collaboration with Spain’s Air Europa.
Despite industry challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic, fuel price fluctuations, and increasing competition, China Eastern Airlines remains resilient. With its strategic hubs, growing fleet, and expanding route network, the airline continues to strengthen its position as one of China’s aviation leaders while enhancing its global footprint.
Whether for business travelers or tourists exploring China and beyond, China Eastern Airlines represents the rapid development of Chinese aviation on the global stage – connecting the world to China and bringing Chinese travelers to destinations around the globe.
Keyword: TopAirlines