China Southern Airlines

China Southern Airlines is China’s largest airline by fleet size, flying from Guangzhou and Beijing Daxing to more than 200 destinations in China, Asia, Europe, Australia and North America. Domestic Economy includes 20 kg of checked baggage, international fares range from Light to Full Flex, and power banks cannot be used on board. This guide covers power bank rules, check-in, visa-free travel to China and how it compares with Air China and China Eastern.

The airline was formed in 1988 and is part of the state-owned China Southern Air Holding group. It flies a large fleet of Airbus and Boeing aircraft, including A350s and 787s, plus the Chinese-built C919.

Power Bank Rules on China Southern Airlines

China’s aviation regulator, the CAAC, applies strict rules:

• Power banks cannot be used to charge devices during the flight.
• Since June 2025, power banks without a clear 3C (CCC) mark are banned on domestic flights within mainland China.
• Power banks must be in cabin baggage, never in checked bags; up to 100 Wh needs no approval and 100–160 Wh needs approval.

Check-In in Guangzhou

Online check-in usually opens 24 hours before departure. Chinese airports have thorough security, and counters close 45 minutes before domestic flights and 60 minutes before international flights, so arrive at least two hours early for domestic and three hours for international flights.

Families and Special Assistance

Infants under two travel on an adult’s lap, and a folding stroller can be checked free. Children travelling alone can use the airline’s escort service, which must be booked in advance. Request wheelchairs and other special assistance at least 48 hours before the flight.

Visa-Free Travel to China

China has widened visa-free entry in recent years:

• Citizens of many countries can now visit China visa-free for short stays.
• The 240-hour visa-free transit policy lets many travellers stop over in China on the way to a third country.
• Check the latest rules for your passport before you fly.

How to Find Cheap China Southern Airlines Flights

• Use Guangzhou as a connection between Australia, Southeast Asia and Europe.
• Compare Light with Saver if you need a checked bag.
• Avoid Chinese New Year and Golden Week, when fares rise sharply.
• Check transit fares with the visa-free transit policy.
• Compare airlines: use the FlightSelects flight search to see its fares next to Air China, China Eastern and others.

China Southern vs Air China vs China Eastern

China’s three big state-owned airlines.

See our Air China guide and China Eastern Airlines guide to compare.

Arriving in Guangzhou

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is about 30 km north of the city centre. Metro Line 3 links the airport with the city, and taxis and ride-hailing apps such as DiDi are widely used.

You can also book an airport transfer in advance at a fixed price.

Is China Southern Airlines a Good Airline?

Yes. It offers a huge network, modern aircraft and good connections through Guangzhou, and it is often cheaper than airlines with hubs in the Gulf or Europe.

For more options, see our airline guides and the FlightSelects travel blog.

Facts checked in October 2026 against CabinZero’s baggage guide and Trip.com on China’s power bank rules. Rules change, so check the official website before you travel.