9 Air

9 Air is a vibrant and ambitious player in the Chinese aviation market, having established itself as the first true low-cost carrier in Central and Southern China. Based in the dynamic city of Guangzhou, the airline paints the sky in bright colours: its aircraft are easily recognised by their multi-coloured tails, symbolising the diversity and accessibility of travel. As a subsidiary of the respected Juneyao Airlines, 9 Air combines the reliability of a major holding company with the flexibility and cost-effectiveness of a budget carrier, opening up an affordable path for tourists to the beauties of China and neighbouring countries.

Features and Advantages of the Airline:

The main mission of 9 Air is to make flying accessible to everyone, which is reflected even in its name, referring to the concept of tickets starting from 9 Yuan. The company operates a modern single-type fleet consisting of reliable Boeing 737-800 and Boeing 737 MAX 8 liners. This allows for high standards of maintenance and punctuality while keeping operating costs low.

The carrier's route network covers key cities in China, connecting them to its hub in Guangdong province, and is actively expanding internationally. Flights to Southeast Asia are particularly popular, such as regular services to Bangkok. Passengers value 9 Air for its transparent fare system, allowing payment only for necessary services, and for the consistently positive atmosphere on board.

For the prompt resolution of issues related to ticket purchase, flight check-in, or baggage regulations, passengers can use the carrier's official communication channels. Since the airline is based in the city of Guangzhou, the main services are oriented towards the Chinese market, but support is available for international clients as well.

Contact Details

• Official Website: www.9air.com (it is recommended to use the English version of the site for navigation).
• Customer Support and Ticket Booking: +86 400-105-1999 (main hotline).
• Email: jyh_service@9air.com (for complaints and suggestions).
• Mobile App: "9 Air" (available for download on major mobile platforms, though functionality is often optimised for Chinese users).

Social Media

The airline conducts its primary communication activity on domestic Chinese platforms (WeChat, Weibo). Presence on international social networks (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter/X) is limited or irregular.

Offices and Representatives

• Head Office: Located in Guangzhou, Baiyun District, in close proximity to Baiyun International Airport.

Please note: Contact details, phone numbers, and email addresses may change at the airline's discretion. We strongly recommend checking the latest information in the "Contact Us" section on the official 9 Air website before reaching out.

The baggage policy of 9 Air follows the classic low-cost model: basic fares offer a minimal set of services, and additional comfort requires extra payment. To avoid unexpected expenses at the airport, especially when transferring through Guangzhou or on international flights such as Bangkok, we recommend familiarising yourself with the rules in advance.

Cabin Baggage (Hand Luggage)

Rules for carry-on luggage with 9 Air are quite strict. This is due to the high density of seating and limited space in overhead bins.

• Weight: Most fares allow carrying one piece of hand luggage weighing up to 7 kg.
• Dimensions: The size of the bag must not exceed 20×30×40 cm. This is smaller than the standard "cabin trolley" sizes accepted by European or Gulf carriers, so please be careful when choosing your bag.
• Personal Items: A small handbag, laptop bag, or camera usually must be packed inside the main piece of hand luggage if the item count exceeds the limit.

Checked Baggage

Free baggage allowances depend directly on the booking class and ticket type. Check your itinerary receipt carefully when purchasing.

• Promo Fares: The cheapest tickets often do not include free checked baggage. The passenger may only take hand luggage.
• Standard Fares: Usually include between 10 to 20 kg of baggage.
• Dimensions: The sum of the three dimensions (length + width + height) of each piece of baggage must not exceed 158 cm (sometimes up to 203 cm, verify on your ticket), and the maximum weight of a single piece must not exceed 32 kg (due to handler safety regulations).

Excess Baggage

If your items weigh more than the allowance, you will have to pay for the excess weight. Excess baggage rates at the airport are significantly higher than when paying online. We strongly recommend purchasing necessary kilograms via the official website or the airline's call centre at least 24 hours before departure. Payment at the airport is charged per kilogram of excess weight at rates depending on the flight duration.

Special Baggage

Special rules apply for transporting non-standard items:

• Sports Equipment: Bicycles, golf equipment, or skis are usually not included in the free allowance and are paid for as oversized cargo. Bicycles must be packed in a case or box, with handlebars turned and pedals removed.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be taken into the cabin if they fit within hand luggage dimensions. Large instruments (cello, guitar) will require either being checked in (in a hard case) or purchasing a separate seat in the cabin (Service Seat).

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Since 9 Air is a Chinese airline, strict aviation security rules of the PRC apply on its flights, which may differ from what you are used to:

• Lithium Batteries (Power Banks): Allowed only in hand luggage. Transport in checked baggage is strictly prohibited. The device must have a clear capacity marking. Batteries up to 100 Wh are carried freely; from 100 to 160 Wh require airline permission. Batteries exceeding 160 Wh are prohibited from transport.
• Lighters and Matches: In China, there is a total ban on carrying lighters and matches in both hand luggage and checked baggage. They will be confiscated at security checks.

Packing Tips

To ensure a smooth journey, weigh your suitcases at home before leaving. Use soft bags or backpacks as they are lighter than hard suitcases and easier to place in overhead bins. Always keep valuables, documents, money, and medication with you in your hand luggage.

Travelling with pets on flights with the budget airline 9 Air requires careful planning and early booking. The carrier adheres to strict safety rules typical of Chinese civil aviation, so it is important to verify the possibility of transporting your pet in advance, especially if the route passes through the humid city of Guangzhou or is an international flight.

Transport Options

In the Cabin (Hand Luggage)

Generally, transporting animals in the aircraft cabin on 9 Air flights is restricted. Usually, this permission extends only to service dogs. If the airline makes an exception for small domestic animals, the following standards apply:

• Carrier Dimensions: Must fit under the seat in front (standard is no more than 40×30×20 cm).
• Maximum Weight: The weight of the animal together with the container usually must not exceed 5–8 kg (verify when booking).
• Permitted Animals: Only domestic cats and small dogs.
• Breed Restrictions: Aggressive breeds and snub-nosed (brachycephalic) animals are prohibited.
• Limit per Passenger: One passenger may carry only one carrier.

In the Hold (Checked Baggage)

This is the most common method of transporting pets on Chinese airline flights. Your pet flies in a special compartment of the aircraft where pressure and temperature are maintained.

• Container Requirements: Rigid plastic or fibreglass, metal door with a secure lock, ventilation on three sides.
• Container Floor: Must be lined with absorbent material; a tray is mandatory.
• Weight and Size: The container must allow the animal to stand up fully and turn around.
• Temperature Restrictions: Animals are not accepted for carriage if the air temperature at the departure or arrival airport (for example, in Bangkok) is below -12°C or above +30°C.
• Required Documents: A declaration for the carriage of live animals, signed by the passenger.

As Cargo (For Large Animals)

If the weight of the animal together with the cage exceeds baggage limits (usually over 32 kg) or if the flight is operated on a small aircraft, the pet is processed through the cargo terminal.

• When Required: For large dogs or when transporting animals unaccompanied by the owner.
• Special Requirements: Reinforced cage, presence of a water bowl and feeder attached to the door.
• Booking Procedure: Arranged through the airline's cargo department at least 24–48 hours before departure.

Required Documents

To check in for the flight, you will need a full package of documents. Requirements in China are strict:

• Veterinary Passport: With microchip details.
• Health Certificate: A certificate in the form approved by the quarantine service (usually valid for 7–14 days).
• Vaccinations: Rabies vaccination is mandatory (administered no less than 30 days and no more than a year before departure).
• International Certificates: Flights abroad require international standard documents and compliance with the quarantine rules of the destination country.

Service Costs

Pet transport is not included in the free baggage allowance and is paid separately according to excess baggage rates or special rates.

• Cabin Transport: Calculated as payment for excess hand luggage (fixed fee).
• Hold Transport: Usually amounts to 1.5% of the full economy class ticket price for every kilogram of weight (animal + cage).
• Price Variance: The cost varies depending on the flight distance and aircraft type.

Preparation Tips

To reduce stress for your pet and avoid problems at the airport:

• Cage Training: Allow the animal to get used to the carrier several weeks before the flight.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal 4 hours before departure, but no later, to avoid motion sickness.
• Water: Ensure access to water, especially if flying to hot countries.
• Identification: Affix a tag to the cage with the pet's name, your name, and contact phone number.

Restrictions

9 Air reserves the right to refuse transport in the following cases:

• Prohibited Breeds: Brachycephalic breeds (Pugs, Bulldogs, Pekingese, etc.) due to the risk of breathing problems at altitude.
• Aggressive Breeds: Fighting dogs and animals showing aggression.
• Health Condition: Pregnant females, animals younger than 3 months, or sick pets.
• Exceptions: Guide dogs and service dogs are carried free of charge in the cabin provided they have relevant certificates and a muzzle.

Attention: Pet transport rules may change depending on the aircraft type and epidemiological situation. We strongly recommend contacting the 9 Air call centre to confirm the booking of a space for your pet before purchasing a ticket.

Loyalty Programme

Passengers of 9 Air can take advantage of the loyalty programme of its parent company, Juneyao Airlines, known as the Juneyao Air Club. This allows travellers to accumulate valuable points not only for flights within China via the hub in Guangzhou but also for international journeys. The programme is designed to turn every kilometre of the journey into bonuses for future adventures.

Membership Tiers

The status system is designed to reward frequent flyers, offering increasingly valuable privileges as qualifying points or flight segments are accumulated:

• Basic Level (Member): Assigned immediately after registration, opening access to point accumulation and special promo fares for members.
• Silver Level: Provides bonus mileage accrual for flights, priority on the waiting list, and the ability to select a seat in the cabin.
• Gold Level: Includes priority check-in at business class counters, priority boarding, additional baggage allowance, and lounge access (on parent company flights).
• Platinum Level: Elite status with the maximum set of services, including guaranteed seat booking, top priority in baggage handling, and the possibility of class upgrades.

How to Earn Points

The programme currency is accrued not only for time spent in the sky but also for using services on the ground:

• Flights on scheduled 9 Air and Juneyao Airlines services (the number of points depends on the booking class and distance).
• Trips to popular destinations, such as Bangkok, earn points according to international fare tables.
• Payment for purchases with co-branded credit cards from partner banks.
• Hotel bookings, car rentals, and insurance purchases from programme partners.

How to Spend Points

Accumulated bonuses can be used to save budget or increase travel comfort:

• Issuing free (award) tickets for 9 Air and Juneyao Airlines flights (only taxes/fees are paid).
• Upgrading class of service from economy to business (available primarily on Juneyao Airlines flights).
• Exchanging points for goods in the "Juneyao Mall" online store, including electronics and travel goods.
• Paying for excess baggage with points (this option may depend on the departure airport).

Alliance Participation

Although 9 Air is a budget carrier, the connection with the parent company opens global opportunities:

• Star Alliance (Connecting Partner): Parent company Juneyao Airlines is a "Connecting Partner" of the largest aviation alliance.
• Elite programme members can count on certain privileges (for example, priority check-in and baggage) on connecting flights with Star Alliance members such as Air China, Lufthansa, or Singapore Airlines.

How to Join

Becoming a programme member is simple and free:

• Fill out the registration form on the official 9 Air or Juneyao Airlines website.
• Download the airline's mobile app and register through it for quick access to a digital card.
• Use the WeChat mini-programme if you are in China for instant registration and balance tracking.

9 Air positions itself as the first budget carrier in Central and Southern China, offering passengers a "no frills" model. This means the basic ticket cost covers only the flight from point A to point B, while you determine the level of comfort yourself by choosing necessary options. Travellers departing from the hub in Guangzhou should know in advance what to expect on board to make the flight as pleasant as possible.

Classes of Service

Unlike classic airlines, 9 Air does not offer the customary division of the cabin into "Business" and "Economy" with partitions and curtains. The entire aircraft cabin is a single Economy Class. However, the airline implements a flexible fare system that allows for different service levels:

• Basic Economy: The most affordable option. Suitable for those travelling light. Includes only a seat on the plane (assigned automatically at check-in) and minimal hand luggage.
• Premium Packages: By purchasing more expensive fares, passengers can receive privileges similar to business class: increased baggage allowance, priority boarding, and seat selection in the front of the cabin.

Seat Configuration and Comfort

The airline's fleet consists of modern Boeing 737-800 and Boeing 737 MAX 8 liners. The cabin layout follows the classic scheme for narrow-body aircraft: 3-3 (three seats on the left, an aisle, three seats on the right).

• Seat Pitch: The distance between seats is standard for low-cost carriers — about 71-74 cm (28-29 inches). For short flights within China, this is quite sufficient.
• Extra Legroom Seats: Tall passengers or those who value comfort on longer flights (for example, to Bangkok) are advised to pre-purchase seats in the front row or at emergency exits, where legroom is significantly greater.
• Upholstery: Seats are typically upholstered in practical artificial leather, ensuring hygiene and a tidy cabin appearance. Seat backs recline, but the recline angle is limited.

Food and Beverages

The 9 Air budget transport concept implies that meals are not included in the basic ticket price. This allows for a significantly lower flight price for those who prefer not to eat en route.

• Pre-order: You can order hot meals online when booking your ticket or via booking management. The menu often includes Chinese cuisine dishes, specifically Cantonese specialities characteristic of the Guangdong region. (Please check for specific dietary requirements such as Halal options at the time of booking).
• Onboard Purchase: During the flight, flight attendants offer a menu with snacks, instant noodles, sandwiches, as well as soft drinks and hot beverages for an additional fee.
• Water: Depending on the fare and flight duration, a small bottle of water may be offered for free, but most often it must also be purchased.

In-flight Entertainment

9 Air aircraft are not equipped with individual multimedia system screens (IFE) in seat backs. Also, there is typically no content streaming system to passenger gadgets on board.

To avoid boredom during the flight, we recommend:

• Downloading films, music, or e-books to your smartphone or tablet in advance.
• Taking a charged power bank with you (remember, it can only be carried in hand luggage!), as USB sockets are not available under every seat.
• Browsing the in-flight magazine, where you can find information about flight destinations and new items from the "Sky Shop" menu.

Special Services

Despite its budget status, 9 Air strives to ensure flight accessibility for all categories of passengers. Most special services must be ordered in advance via the call centre or sales offices.

• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: The airline provides escort services and wheelchairs. A request for this service must be submitted no later than 48 hours before departure.
• Unaccompanied Minors: For children aged 5 to 12 travelling without adults, an escort service by airline staff is available. The number of such places on each flight is limited.
• Pregnant Women: Flying is possible with a medical certificate (after the 32nd week of pregnancy). Rules are strict, so be sure to verify current requirements before purchasing a ticket.

The route network of 9 Air is built around the strategically important hub in Guangzhou, ensuring convenient connections between regions of China and neighbouring countries. Thanks to active development, the carrier offers passengers a stable schedule and affordable flights to in-demand destinations. Below is information on flight frequency for the most popular routes.

Travelling with a low-cost carrier requires knowledge of certain nuances to save not only money but also stress. Since 9 Air operates on a budget carrier model, the final cost and comfort of your trip depend directly on smart planning. Here are a few recommendations to help make your flight pleasant and trouble-free.

Best Time to Book

As with most budget airlines, the rule "the earlier, the cheaper" works flawlessly here. The optimal time to purchase tickets for flights from the hub in Guangzhou is 2–3 months before the intended departure date. When planning your trip, pay attention to the calendar: the airline often holds sales associated with the number 9 in the date. Check prices on the 9th, 19th, and 29th of each month — these are the days with a high probability of catching tickets at the lowest fares.

How to Find Discounts and Promotions

To avoid missing profitable offers, for example, on the popular route to Bangkok, it is recommended to subscribe to the airline's official channels. The most prompt announcements of promotions appear on the Chinese social network WeChat. Also, keep an eye on the special offers section on the official website, where tickets at symbolic prices (sometimes from 9 Yuan excluding fees) appear periodically. Remember that promotional tickets are usually non-refundable and do not include baggage.

Online Check-in

We strongly recommend checking in online to avoid queues at the airport and guarantee your seat. Online check-in usually opens 24 hours before departure. This can be done via the official website or mobile app. Note that on some international flights, online check-in may be restricted, so always check the information in your booking and, if necessary, arrive at the airport early — at least 3 hours before departure.

Tips for Seat Selection

In 9 Air aircraft cabins, seat configuration is quite dense. In basic fares, selecting a specific seat is a paid service. If you are travelling as a group and want to sit together, it is better to pay for seat selection in advance on the website — it is cheaper than at the airport and guarantees you sit together. For tall passengers, it makes sense to pay extra for seats in the front row or at emergency exits to ensure additional legroom.

Travel Insurance

Budget airlines generally do not provide compensation for delays due to weather conditions or reasons beyond the company's control. Given the heavy traffic in the skies over China, flight delays do happen. We recommend taking out comprehensive travel insurance that covers risks of flight delay or cancellation, loss of baggage, and medical expenses. This is a small investment that will save your nerves in case of force majeure.

Mobile App

The "9 Air" app is a useful tool for managing your trip. It allows you to buy tickets, check in for a flight, and purchase additional services (such as baggage or meals) literally on the go. Note that the app interface may be partially oriented towards Chinese users, but the main functions are intuitive. Using the app often gives access to exclusive mobile fares unavailable on the website.

The history of 9 Air is a chronicle of a rapid take-off and the successful implementation of a budget transport model in one of the most competitive markets in the world. Founded in 2014 as a subsidiary of the major holding Juneyao Airlines, the company chose the bustling city of Guangzhou as its base, becoming the first true low-cost carrier in Central and Southern China. This step was a strategic response to the growing demand for affordable air travel in the densely populated Pearl River Delta region.

The carrier performed its first commercial flight in early 2015, opening a new page in the region's civil aviation. The name "9 Air" was not chosen by chance: it symbolises the company's pricing policy oriented towards accessibility. The concept of promo fares for 9, 19, or 99 Yuan became the brand's calling card, attracting thousands of passengers who previously preferred ground transport.

A crucial aspect of development was the formation of an efficient air fleet. Since its inception, 9 Air has focused on standardisation, choosing reliable aircraft from the Boeing family. Starting operations with Boeing 737-800s, the airline eventually moved to operating the newest Boeing 737 MAX 8 liners. The use of a modern single-type fleet allowed for significantly reduced fuel and maintenance costs, which is a key factor in maintaining low ticket prices.

The airline's route network evolved from regional flights to international expansion. After strengthening its position in the domestic PRC market by connecting industrial centres with tourist locations, 9 Air expanded beyond the country's borders. A significant milestone was the launch of regular flights to Southeast Asia. The route to Bangkok is particularly popular, opening a convenient air bridge between Southern China and the capital of Thailand for budget tourists.

Today, 9 Air continues to innovate, betting on the digitalisation of services and recognisable marketing. The bright livery of the aircraft with multi-coloured circles on the tail makes them stand out at any airport, emphasising the dynamic character of the brand. As part of the Juneyao group, the airline harmoniously complements the premium service of the parent structure, offering a quality and safe product in the budget segment.