Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) are two of Asia’s busiest aviation hubs, welcoming millions of travelers each year. Whether you’re flying for business, tourism, or connecting onward within China, choosing the right airline makes a big difference. This guide highlights the top 10 airlines flying direct to Beijing, ranked by popularity, flight frequency, and route network strength in 2026.
1. Air China
Air China is the leading airline flying direct to Beijing, operating the highest number of weekly departures from its primary hub at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK). With thousands of flights connecting Asia, Europe, North America, and Oceania, Air China offers unmatched route coverage. Travelers appreciate its extensive global network, competitive fares, and seamless domestic connections within China. Business class passengers benefit from premium lounges and priority services, while economy travelers enjoy reliable service and frequent schedules. If you want maximum flexibility and global reach, Air China remains the top choice for nonstop flights to Beijing.
2. Hainan Airlines
Hainan Airlines ranks second among airlines flying direct to Beijing, serving over 200 domestic and international destinations. Known for its high-quality onboard service and comfortable seating, Hainan operates modern aircraft such as Boeing 737s and Airbus A320s. The airline connects Beijing with major cities across Asia, Europe, and North America, making it a popular option for both leisure and business travelers. Passengers often praise its attentive cabin crew and solid in-flight entertainment. For travelers seeking a balance of affordability and premium service on nonstop Beijing routes, Hainan Airlines is a strong contender.
3. China Eastern Airlines
China Eastern Airlines offers extensive nonstop connections to Beijing, particularly from key Asian cities and major Chinese hubs like Shanghai and Guangzhou. As one of China’s largest carriers, it provides dependable service and competitive pricing for international and regional travelers. The airline operates modern aircraft and offers multiple cabin classes, including business and premium economy options on select routes. China Eastern’s strong partnerships with global airlines also make it easier to coordinate connecting flights. For travelers prioritizing route flexibility and competitive fares when flying direct to Beijing, China Eastern remains a practical and popular option.
4. Cathay Pacific
Cathay Pacific connects Hong Kong to Beijing with premium nonstop service, making it one of the most reputable Asian airlines on this route. Known for its high-quality cabin experience, Cathay offers comfortable seating, excellent in-flight entertainment, and well-reviewed premium economy and business class products. The airline is especially popular with business travelers and international passengers transiting through Hong Kong International Airport (HKG). Its strong reputation for safety, service consistency, and customer satisfaction makes it a reliable choice. For travelers seeking refined comfort and a smooth direct flight to Beijing, Cathay Pacific stands out.
5. Korean Air
Korean Air operates direct flights from Seoul Incheon (ICN) to Beijing, serving as a convenient option for travelers connecting through South Korea’s major aviation hub. The airline is widely recognized for punctuality, professional service, and comfortable seating across all cabin classes. With multiple daily frequencies, passengers enjoy flexible departure times and efficient transit connections to North America and Southeast Asia. Korean Air’s modern fleet and strong safety record further enhance its appeal. For those traveling from or through Seoul, Korean Air offers one of the most reliable and traveler-friendly nonstop options to Beijing.
6. United Airlines
United Airlines provides nonstop flights to Beijing from key U.S. West Coast cities such as San Francisco and Los Angeles. As one of the leading American carriers serving China, United appeals to business travelers and long-haul passengers seeking direct transpacific routes. The airline offers Polaris business class with lie-flat seats, upgraded dining, and lounge access, while economy passengers benefit from seatback entertainment and Wi-Fi availability. United’s strong domestic U.S. network also makes it easy to connect from other American cities. For direct U.S.–Beijing travel, United Airlines remains a top and dependable choice.
7. All Nippon Airways (ANA)
All Nippon Airways (ANA) operates direct flights from Tokyo Narita to Beijing, earning praise for punctuality and exceptional Japanese hospitality. ANA is consistently ranked among the world’s best airlines, offering clean cabins, attentive service, and high-quality in-flight meals. Business travelers appreciate its efficient schedules and smooth airport operations at Narita International Airport (NRT). The airline’s premium economy and business class cabins provide extra comfort for short and medium-haul regional flights. For travelers flying from Japan or connecting through Tokyo, ANA delivers a seamless and premium nonstop travel experience to Beijing.
8. China Airlines
China Airlines offers direct flights from Taipei (TPE) to Beijing, providing a convenient cross-strait connection for business and leisure travelers. The airline is known for competitive pricing, comfortable seating, and attentive service across its regional routes. Passengers can choose from economy and business class cabins, with modern aircraft ensuring a smooth journey. China Airlines also offers convenient connections to Southeast Asia and North America via Taipei. For travelers seeking affordable nonstop flights between Taiwan and Beijing, China Airlines is a reliable and popular carrier with strong regional appeal.
9. Asiana Airlines
Asiana Airlines operates direct Seoul–Beijing flights, giving travelers another strong option from South Korea’s Incheon International Airport. The airline is recognized for friendly cabin service, comfortable seating, and well-maintained aircraft. Asiana’s efficient scheduling makes it easy for passengers to connect onward to major cities in Asia and North America. Frequent travelers value its loyalty program and consistent service standards. With a reputation for reliability and solid in-flight experience, Asiana Airlines remains a trusted choice for passengers flying nonstop from Seoul to Beijing for both business and tourism purposes.
10. Lufthansa
Lufthansa connects Frankfurt (FRA) directly to Beijing, serving as a key European gateway to China. As Germany’s flagship carrier, Lufthansa offers reliable long-haul service with modern aircraft and multiple cabin options, including premium economy and business class. European travelers benefit from convenient connections across the continent via Frankfurt’s major hub. The airline is well regarded for safety standards, efficient operations, and professional service. For passengers flying from Europe to Beijing, Lufthansa provides one of the most established and dependable nonstop routes, making it a preferred airline for transcontinental travel.
Conclusion
When choosing among the top airlines flying direct to Beijing, consider factors like departure city, cabin comfort, loyalty programs, and connection options. With strong carriers from China, Asia, Europe, and North America offering nonstop service, traveling to Beijing in 2026 is more convenient than ever. Always check updated schedules and airport information for Beijing Capital (PEK) or Beijing Daxing (PKX) before booking your flight.