China Southern Airlines is one of China's largest airlines, headquartered in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, and ranks among the top global carriers in terms of fleet size and passenger numbers. The airline operates over 2,000 daily flights to more than 200 destinations and runs major hubs at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport and Beijing Daxing International Airport. Initially founded in 1988 after the restructuring of China's CAAC, China Southern quickly expanded through mergers and acquisitions, becoming one of the country's "Big Three" airlines alongside Air China and China Eastern.
Key Facts
- China Southern was previously a member of the SkyTeam alliance but left in January 2019 to establish more flexible partnerships, including with American Airlines.
- As of 2024, China Southern had one of the largest market presences in Asia and was also a significant player in routes connecting China to Australia, Southeast Asia, and is expanding into South America and Africa.
- The company owns majority shares in other airlines, including Xiamen Airlines and Chongqing Airlines, and has a large, modern fleet consisting of both Airbus and Boeing models, as well as smaller regional jets.
- China Southern’s logo features a kapok flower—Guangzhou's city flower—on a blue tail fin, and the airline’s slogan is "Fly towards your dreams".
Destinations and Expansion
- The airline offers extensive domestic and international service, focusing on routes within Asia but also providing service to Europe, North America, Australia, and other global destinations from its main hubs.
- In addition to passenger services, China Southern operates dedicated cargo flights under the China Southern Cargo brand.
Partnerships and Alliances
- Although no longer a SkyTeam member, China Southern has ongoing partnerships, notably a frequent flyer partnership with American Airlines, and continues to seek new alignments without entering another alliance for the time being.
China Southern Airlines is well-established as a major force in both China and global aviation, with ongoing growth and modernization shaping its future.