China Southern Airlines

China Southern Airlines (ICAO: CSN) is a prominent carrier headquartered in Guangzhou, Guangdong, China, recognized as one of the country's "Big Three" airlines.

China Southern Airlines was established on July 1, 1988, as a result of the Chinese government's initiative to decentralize the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) and liberalize the aviation market. The airline commenced its first commercial operations under its own branding in February 1991. Over the years, it expanded significantly, absorbing several domestic airlines such as Zhongyuan Airlines, China Northern Airlines, and Xinjiang Airlines, which considerably increased its fleet and passenger capacity.

The airline's main operational hubs are Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) and Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX), which serve as crucial gateways for its extensive network. Secondary hubs include Shanghai Pudong International Airport, Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport, Ürümqi Diwopu International Airport, and Wuhan Tianhe International Airport. China Southern operates a modern and diverse fleet of over 900 passenger and cargo aircraft. This includes various models from Boeing (787, 777, 737 series) and Airbus (A350, A330, A320 series), as well as COMAC's C909 and C919. The airline phased out its Airbus A380s in November 2022.

China Southern boasts an extensive route network, encompassing a strong domestic presence within China and international services radiating across Asia, Europe, America, Oceania, and Africa, covering more than 200 destinations in over 35 countries worldwide. The airline is particularly known for its "Canton Route" strategy, which establishes Guangzhou as a major international air hub connecting China with Oceania and Southeast Asia, and further bridging Europe and Australia. While it was a member of the SkyTeam alliance from 2007 to 2019, China Southern has since withdrawn and currently operates an individual partnership network, notably with American Airlines. The airline offers several cabin classes, including Economy, Premium Economy, Business (featuring flatbed seats on some wide-body aircraft), and Deluxe First. Its frequent flyer program is known as the Sky Pearl Club, which boasts over 100 million members. Notable services include "China Southern e-Travel," "Premium Services," "Luggage Priority," "Seamless Transit," "360-Degree In-Flight Service," and "Dine with China Southern."