GX Airlines

GX Airlines (Guangxi Beibu Gulf Airlines) is not just a regional carrier, but your reliable guide to the colourful world of Southern China and Southeast Asia. Based in the picturesque Guangxi region, the company opens doors to both bustling metropolises and hidden natural treasures rarely reached by major international flights. A journey with this airline promises an immersion into the atmosphere of local hospitality and comfort even before boarding the aircraft.

History and Key Routes

The airline was founded in 2015 as the first local aviation enterprise in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Since its maiden flight, GX Airlines has strived to become a key link connecting China with ASEAN countries. The route network is designed to ensure convenient connections not only within the country but also beyond its borders. Special attention is paid to resort destinations: a significant portion of flights connects the mainland with the tropical island of Hainan, particularly with the city of Haikou, which serves as a vital node in their schedule.

The flight geography is actively expanding. In addition to numerous domestic routes covering cities such as Harbin, Zhuhai, and Hefei, the carrier operates international flights to popular tourist centres. For instance, travellers can comfortably reach Bangkok or visit the capital of Laos — Vientiane, enjoying a direct flight from the airline's home region.

Fleet and Comfort

The GX Airlines fleet consists of modern and reliable liners. The backbone of the fleet comprises Embraer E190 aircraft, known for their passenger comfort due to the absence of a middle seat (2+2 layout). For busier routes, spacious Airbus A320 aircraft are utilised. This fleet composition allows the airline to flexibly manage passenger flow, ensuring flight regularity even on less busy regional routes.

Values and Safety

The mission of GX Airlines is to serve as an "air bridge" for economic and cultural exchange in the Beibu Gulf region. The company positions itself as a service-oriented carrier, prioritising punctuality and friendly service. Regarding safety, the airline adheres to the strict standards of the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) and uses advanced flight management systems, confirmed by a stable accident-free operational history.

If you need to clarify flight details, arrange additional services, or learn about carriage rules, GX Airlines offers several communication channels. Please note that the airline is primarily focused on the Chinese domestic market, so communication via local digital platforms or by phone is often more effective than email correspondence.

Official Website

The company's website is the main tool for purchasing tickets and managing bookings. Please be aware that the English version of the resource may have limited functionality or operate unstably, so using a browser-integrated automatic translator on the Chinese version pages often simplifies navigation.

Contact Details

• Website: www.gxairlines.com
• Customer Service Hotline: +86 95370 (for calls from abroad), 95370 (for calls within China). The line operates 24/7 and serves HNA Group clients.
• Email: ts@gxairlines.com (Customer Service and Complaints Department).

Social Media and Messengers

Like many regional carriers in the PRC, GX Airlines is not very active on Western social networks. The most up-to-date information and operational news can be found on local platforms:

• WeChat and Weibo: Official accounts are available by searching for Guangxi Beibu Gulf Airlines (or via the characters 北部湾航空).

Offices and Representations

The airline's headquarters is based in the city of Nanning. Passenger service in other cities is usually provided at branded HNA Group counters or directly at airport gates.

• Head Office Address: Nanning Wuxu International Airport, Nanning, Guangxi, China.

Useful Tip

Before contacting support, have your ticket number and passport details ready. Contact phone numbers and addresses may change, so it is recommended to verify information in the "Contact Us" section on the official website before calling.

Proper baggage preparation ensures a smooth start to your journey with GX Airlines. The airline's policy generally aligns with Civil Aviation Administration of China standards, though allowances may vary based on service class and specific fare. Whether you are going on a business trip or planning to visit scenic Zhangjiajie, we recommend carefully reviewing the rules before heading to the airport.

Carry-on Baggage

Strict restrictions apply to items passengers take into the cabin on GX Airlines flights. Generally, for most economy class fares, passengers are allowed one piece of carry-on baggage weighing up to 5 or 7 kg (depending on ticket conditions). Dimensions must not exceed 20×40×55 cm. Given that the fleet partially consists of Embraer E190 aircraft, overhead bins may be more compact than on wide-body liners. If your bag does not fit in the bin or under the seat, you will be asked to check it in (possibly for an additional fee).

Checked Baggage

Free baggage allowances depend on the purchased ticket. On domestic flights within China, the "Weight Concept" is often applied, limiting total weight rather than the number of bags:

• Business Class: Usually includes up to 30 kg of baggage.
• Economy Class: The standard allowance is 20 kg.
• Promo Fares: Be careful when purchasing the cheapest tickets — they may not include free baggage or limit weight to 10 kg.

If you are flying to Xuzhou or other cities in the network with layovers, be sure to clarify if the baggage allowance applies to all flight segments.

Excess Baggage

A fee applies for any overweight or oversized items. Excess baggage rates in China are usually calculated as a percentage of the full economy class ticket price per kilogram of excess weight (often 1.5%). Payment at the airport can be substantial, so if you have many items, it is more cost-effective to purchase an additional baggage package in advance through the airline's official channels.

Special Items

Sports equipment (golf clubs, skis, bicycles) and musical instruments are accepted for carriage only with prior approval. Bicycles require special packaging, handlebars must be turned, and pedals removed. Small, fragile musical instruments may be taken into the cabin if a separate seat is purchased for them (Extra Seat Baggage).

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Pay special attention to safety rules, which are strictly enforced in Chinese airports:

• Lithium Batteries and Power Banks: Must be carried ONLY in carry-on baggage. Battery capacity must not exceed 100 Wh. Batteries from 100 to 160 Wh require airline approval; those over 160 Wh are prohibited. The device must have factory markings with specifications.
• Lighters and Matches: Completely PROHIBITED for carriage in both carry-on and checked baggage on all flights departing from Chinese airports. They will be confiscated at security.
• Liquids in Carry-on: In containers no larger than 100 ml each, packed in a single transparent bag with a volume of up to 1 litre.

Efficient Packing Tips

To avoid delays at security, pack all electronic devices (laptops, tablets, batteries) and umbrellas so they can be easily removed. If your suitcase has a lock, ensure it is a TSA-standard lock, as security services have the right to open baggage for inspection without the passenger present. Always remove old baggage tags so the sorting system does not send your belongings to the wrong destination.

Travelling with a pet requires careful preparation, and GX Airlines strives to make this process as transparent as possible for its passengers. As part of the HNA Group, the airline adheres to strict yet clear safety standards to ensure comfort for both animals and other travellers. Before purchasing a ticket, it is important to remember that transporting a pet requires prior coordination and confirmation from the carrier.

Transport Options

In the Cabin (Carry-on)

Transporting animals in the aircraft cabin on Chinese regional airlines, including GX Airlines, has a number of strict limitations and is often available only on specific routes.

• Carrier Dimensions: Usually must not exceed 35×28×24 cm to fit freely under the seat in front.
• Maximum Weight: The total weight of the animal plus the carrier is generally limited to 5 kg.
• Permitted Animals: Only domestic cats and small dogs.
• Restrictions: The animal must remain in the carrier throughout the flight, must not make loud noises, and must not cause inconvenience to neighbours.
• Limit: Usually, only one carrier per passenger is allowed, with a limited number of animals per cabin.

In the Hold (Checked Baggage)

This is the primary method of transport for most pets weighing more than the cabin allowance.

• Container Requirements: The crate must be made of rigid plastic or fibreglass (soft bags are prohibited). The design must prevent accidental opening.
• Container Size: The animal must be able to stand freely at full height, turn around, and lie down in a natural position.
• Equipment: A metal door, ventilation openings on three sides, and absorbent material on the bottom (pads) are mandatory.
• Documents: The container must have a tag with the owner's details and the pet's name.

As Cargo

This option is used if the animal is too large, flying unaccompanied, or if required by the destination country's regulations.

• When Required: For animals weighing over 32 kg (including the crate) or for commercial shipments of animals.
• Special Requirements: Processed through the airport cargo terminal; a reinforced crate is required.
• Booking: Must contact the airline's cargo department at least 24 hours before departure.

Required Documents

You will need a full set of documents for flight registration. Please note that requirements for domestic flights within China and international flights differ.

• Veterinary passport with microchip records.
• Valid vaccination certificate (special attention is paid to the rabies vaccine, administered no less than 30 days and no more than a year before departure).
• Health certificate (form depends on the route, usually valid for 7-14 days).
• Animal Quarantine Certificate — critically important for domestic flights in China.

Service Costs

Pet transport is not included in the free baggage allowance and is paid separately.

• In Cabin: A fixed fee applies (usually varying from 800 to 1400 CNY per segment, depending on precise fare conditions).
• In Hold: The cost is often calculated using the excess baggage formula (usually 1.5% of the full economy class ticket price per kilogram of the total weight of the animal and crate).
• Important: Prices may change depending on the route distance and aircraft type.

Preparation Tips

• Accustom your animal to the crate in advance, at least a few weeks before the flight.
• Do not feed the pet 2-4 hours before departure to avoid motion sickness, but provide access to water.
• Place a favourite toy or an item with the owner's scent in the crate to reduce stress.
• Ensure the bottom of the container is lined with reliable absorbent material.

Restrictions

GX Airlines cares about flight safety, so there are strict bans on transporting certain categories of animals.

• Prohibited Breeds: Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) dog and cat breeds (Pugs, Bulldogs, Persian cats) are often not accepted for transport due to the risk of respiratory problems at altitude.
• Aggressive Breeds: Fighting dogs and animals showing aggression.
• Health Condition: Pregnant females, nursing animals, and puppies/kittens under 3 months (sometimes 6 months).
• Exceptions: Officially certified guide dogs are usually transported in the cabin free of charge provided all documents and a muzzle are present.

We recommend contacting the GX Airlines call centre in advance to confirm the possibility of transport on your specific flight, as aircraft types may change.

Introduction

For its frequent flyers, GX Airlines offers membership in the global loyalty programme Fortune Wings Club. This is a unified bonus system for HNA Group airlines, turning every flight into an investment in future travel. Thanks to a wide network of partners, the programme allows you to accumulate bonuses not only on regional routes but also when flying with major international airlines belonging to the holding.

Membership Tiers

Status in the programme unlocks access to exclusive privileges that make travel more comfortable. The more often you fly, the higher your level:

• Fortune Wings (Base): Assigned immediately upon registration. Allows you to earn miles and exchange them for rewards.
• Silver Card: Grants the right to priority check-in, bonus mile accrual (usually +25%), and priority seat reservation.
• Gold Card: Includes access to VIP lounges (including at the base airport Nanning), extra free baggage allowance, and priority boarding.
• Platinum Card: The highest elite level, offering maximum bonuses (+50% miles), a guaranteed seat on the flight when booking 24 hours in advance, and the possibility of a class upgrade.

How to Earn Miles

The point accumulation system in the Fortune Wings Club is flexible and not limited to just buying flight tickets:

• Flights: Miles are awarded based on distance and booking class on GX Airlines and partner airline flights. For example, frequent flights to resort Haikou will allow you to quickly increase your account balance.
• Partners on the Ground: Points can be earned for stays at partner hotels, car rentals, and booking travel services through the programme website.
• Credit Cards: Using co-branded bank cards (primarily from Chinese banks) converts everyday spending into bonus miles.
• Shopping: Point accrual for purchases in partner online stores.

How to Spend Miles

Accumulated points are a universal currency for the traveller, which can be used in various ways:

• Award Tickets: Full coverage of the fare on GX Airlines and partner flights (passenger pays only taxes and fees).
• Class Upgrade: Upgrade from Economy to Business Class subject to seat availability.
• Excess Baggage: The ability to pay for overweight suitcases with miles directly at the airport.
• Goods and Gifts: Exchange points for electronics, home appliances, or souvenirs in the Fortune Wings Club online catalogue.

Alliance Participation and Partnerships

GX Airlines is not a member of global alliances like Star Alliance or SkyTeam, but it is part of the powerful aviation conglomerate HNA Group. This means the loyalty programme is valid on flights of major carriers such as:

• Hainan Airlines
• Grand China Air
• Tianjin Airlines
• Lucky Air
• Capital Airlines

How to Join

Joining the privilege club is very simple; the procedure takes just a few minutes:

• Fill out the online form on the official Fortune Wings Club or GX Airlines website.
• Register via the official mobile app or WeChat account.
• Participation is absolutely free, and a digital card number is generated instantly. Don't forget to provide it every time you book tickets.

Travelling with GX Airlines combines the standards of the major aviation holding HNA Group with the cosiness of a regional carrier. The company strives to make the flight as comfortable as possible, offering passengers service that exceeds expectations for standard local flights. Whether you are flying for a short business trip or embarking on a long journey to the south, you will be met on board by attentive staff and a thoughtful range of services.

Service Classes

The airline offers a classic service system tailored to the needs of different categories of travellers. Cabin configuration may change depending on the aircraft type.

• Economy Class: The primary choice for most passengers. Thanks to the use of Embraer E190 aircraft, Economy Class here is often more comfortable than that of competitors: the absence of a middle seat (2+2 layout) guarantees that you will always have either aisle access or a window view. Seats feature an ergonomic design and sufficient legroom for a comfortable flight of medium duration.
• Business Class: Available on most flights operated by Airbus A320 and on some E190 routes. Passengers in this class gain access to wider seats in the front of the cabin, increased legroom, welcome drinks, and an enhanced dining menu. Priority boarding and disembarkation are also included.

Comfort and Seat Configuration

The GX Airlines fleet is designed with regional transport specifics in mind. If your flight is operated on an Embraer E190, you will appreciate one of the most convenient layouts in the sky: two seats on the left and two on the right. This is an ideal option for couples or colleagues, as it eliminates the "elbow effect" of a stranger in the middle. On the larger Airbus A320, the standard 3+3 scheme is used, but modern slim-profile seats ensure a decent level of personal space.

Food and Beverages

The gastronomic component of the flight varies depending on departure time and flight duration. The airline is proud of its origins and often includes elements of Guangxi regional cuisine in the menu.

• On short flights: (e.g., between neighbouring provinces) passengers are usually offered bottled water and light snacks (crackers, cookies, or nuts).
• On long flights: If you are flying a long route, for example, from the northern city of Harbin to a tropical island, you will be offered a hot meal. The menu usually includes Chinese cuisine dishes (rice or noodles with meat and vegetables).
• Beverages: A selection of soft drinks, tea, and coffee is available on board.

Entertainment and Connectivity

Since GX Airlines specialises in regional routes, individual multimedia screens in seatbacks are generally absent. We recommend downloading movies, music, or books to your personal mobile devices in advance. On some aircraft, a streaming entertainment system via Wi-Fi (connection to the plane's internal network) may be available, allowing you to watch content on your smartphone or tablet. You will also find an inflight magazine in the seat pocket with interesting articles about travel in China and Asian countries.

Special Services

The airline pays special attention to passengers requiring extra care. All special services must be ordered in advance through the call centre or sales offices.

• For families with children: Safety belts for infants are provided on board. If you are flying with a small child to Haikou for a vacation, flight attendants will help warm up baby food.
• Unaccompanied Minors: An escort service is available for children aged 5 to 12 travelling without adults. Staff will look after the child from the check-in counter until handover to the meeting party at the arrival airport.
• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Escort services and wheelchairs are provided. It is important to notify the airline no later than 48 hours before departure, especially if you are travelling with your own electric wheelchair.

If your journey includes a transfer at the Nanning hub to an international flight, for example to Bangkok, GX Airlines staff will endeavour to ensure the smoothest possible transit of baggage and passengers within a single booking.

GX Airlines is actively developing its route network, relying on the strategically important hub in the city of Nanning. The carrier's main focus is on ensuring convenient connections between mainland Chinese cities and the popular resort centre of Haikou, as well as operating international flights to Southeast Asian countries.

To ensure your journey with GX Airlines goes as smoothly and cost-effectively as possible, we have gathered several proven recommendations. Being part of the major HNA Group holding, the airline offers a high level of service but has its own specifics worth knowing in advance.

Best Time to Book and Finding Low Fares

As with most Chinese carriers, the most favourable fares usually appear 3–5 weeks before departure. However, if you are planning a trip to Haikou or other popular tourist spots during national holidays (Chinese New Year, "Golden Week" in October), tickets should be purchased 2–3 months in advance. To catch the best discounts, we recommend:

• Subscribing to the airline's official account on WeChat (search for GX Airlines or Beibu Gulf Airlines). This is where exclusive promo codes and "Flash sales" unavailable on international aggregators are most often published.
• Checking prices on the official website or the HNA Group app, as intermediary service fees are often absent there.
• Using accumulated Fortune Wings Club miles for partial ticket payment.

Flight Check-in

Online check-in generally opens 24 hours in advance and closes 60–90 minutes before departure. You can check in via the website or mobile app. This is especially convenient if you are flying with carry-on luggage only.

Important nuance: For international flights (e.g., to Bangkok or Vientiane), online check-in may be unavailable or require visa document verification at the airport counter. We recommend arriving at the Nanning hub at least 3 hours before departure to complete all formalities.

Seat Selection Tips

The airline's fleet has advantages you can use when selecting a seat:

• Embraer E190: If your flight is operated on this aircraft type, you are in luck — there are no middle seats. The 2+2 layout means you will always sit either by the window or the aisle. This is an ideal option for couples. Rows at emergency exits offer more legroom, but an additional fee may apply.
• Airbus A320: The standard 3+3 scheme is used here. If you want to exit the plane faster upon arrival, choose seats in the front section of the cabin (up to row 10).

Mobile App and Digital Services

For booking management, it is most convenient to use the app of the parent company Hainan Airlines or mini-programmes in WeChat. Features allow you to:

• Track flight status in real-time (very useful during the rainy season in Southern China when delays are possible).
• Order special meals.
• Purchase additional baggage with a discount of up to 20% compared to airport rates.

Travel Insurance

Given the climatic features of the Guangxi region and heavy air traffic over China, flight delays due to weather conditions are not uncommon. We strongly recommend purchasing insurance covering risks of flight delay or cancellation. This will allow you to receive compensation for waiting or hotel payments if a connection is missed.

GX Airlines (Guangxi Beibu Gulf Airlines) is a relatively young but dynamically developing participant in the Chinese aviation market. The carrier's history is an example of how a regional initiative supported by a major holding can turn into a significant international brand linking the southern provinces of the PRC with Southeast Asian countries in a short time.

Founding and Early Years

The company was officially established in 2015 as a joint venture between one of the giants of Chinese aviation — the HNA Group (via its subsidiary Tianjin Airlines) — and the Guangxi Beibu Gulf Investment Group. The goal of creating the carrier was to improve transport accessibility in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and stimulate regional economic growth.

The symbolic start of operations took place on February 13, 2015, when a GX Airlines liner made its first commercial flight from the base airport Nanning to Haikou. This route became the foundation of the route network, connecting the administrative centre of Guangxi with the popular tourist island.

Fleet Evolution

GX Airlines' fleet formation strategy proceeded in two key stages:

• The E190 Era: In the early years of operation, the airline relied exclusively on regional Embraer E190 aircraft. These manoeuvrable and economical machines were perfectly suited for developing the domestic network, allowing connections between small cities and major hubs.
• Transition to Airbus: An important milestone in history was August 2016, when the fleet was replenished with the first medium-haul Airbus A320 liners. This event marked the company's transition to a new league: more capacious aircraft allowed for increased passenger flow on busy routes and opened opportunities for flights over longer distances.

Significant Route Launches and Network Expansion

Having established itself in the domestic market and set up regular connections with cities such as Harbin and Zhuhai, the airline began expansion beyond China. The strategic location of the base in the south of the country determined the vector of international development — ASEAN countries.

An important historical moment was the launch of direct international flights connecting China with the tourist capitals of its neighbours. Opening routes to Bangkok and Vientiane not only simplified life for tourists but also strengthened GX Airlines' status as an "air bridge" between China and Southeast Asia.

Modern Development and Innovation

Today, GX Airlines continues to integrate into the global HNA Group network, implementing digital technologies to improve the passenger experience. The company is actively developing the concept of "Smart Aviation", refining online booking systems and onboard service. Remaining true to its original mission, the airline plays a key role in developing the transport infrastructure of the Beibu Gulf economic belt, increasing the number of passengers carried annually and opening new destinations.