Shenzhen Airlines and Star Alliance: What It Really Means for Travelers

History and positioning

Born as a regional carrier in southern China, Shenzhen Airlines is now part of the Air China group but keeps its own brand and its own network, with a growing weight on longer-haul international routes compared with typical Chinese regional carriers.

The fleet

The fleet is made up mainly of Boeing 737s, but the airline also operates a few widebody Boeing 787-9s on selected international routes, a choice that sets it apart from other Chinese regional carriers limited to single-aisle aircraft.

Routes and network

The network starts from Shenzhen Bao'an and extends both across the Chinese domestic market and to regional international links and, thanks to the 787s, to some longer routes. Its status as a connecting partner of Star Alliance allows convenient connections with other alliance members at some airports, but it is not equivalent to full membership.

Shenzhen Airlines is a good option for anyone traveling to or from southern China who wants a convenient link to the Air China network, less suitable for those counting on Star Alliance mileage accrual and expecting the same treatment as a full member. Before booking with miles in mind, check the exact earning and redemption conditions on the Star Alliance program you use: "connecting partner" status comes with different rules than full membership.