Xiamen Airlines

Xiamen Airlines is a scheduled full-service carrier founded in 1984 and headquartered in Xiamen, Fujian Province. It was established as one of China’s first airlines to operate with participation from both central and local stakeholders. China Southern Airlines is its controlling shareholder, with Xiamen C&D Corporation and the Fujian provincial investment organization also holding interests. The airline uses the IATA code MF and is commonly identified by its blue livery and white-egret emblem.

Xiamen is the airline’s primary hub, while Fuzhou, Hangzhou, Chongqing and Changsha are its other busiest departure points. Its network covers 56 destinations across 7 countries through 374 routes, with a particularly strong presence in eastern, southeastern and central China. Notable destinations include Xiamen, Fuzhou, Hangzhou, Chongqing, Changsha, Xian, Jinjiang, Wuhan, Taipei, Jinan, Zhengzhou and Nanchang. International flying primarily supplements the airline’s dense domestic schedule.

Aircraft types associated with its operations include Boeing 737 and 737-800 variants, Airbus A321 and A330-300 aircraft, and Embraer ERJ-190 regional jets. Records also include the Airbus A340-300, Boeing 757 and Boeing/McDonnell Douglas MD-90. Aircraft and cabin products vary by route, but the airline generally offers Economy Class and a premium cabin, with Business Class available on suitable aircraft. Wide-body services typically provide the most comprehensive onboard facilities.

Xiamen Airlines joined SkyTeam in 2012, giving passengers access to connecting flights and reciprocal benefits across the alliance’s international network. Its own loyalty programme is Egret Miles, through which eligible travellers can earn and redeem mileage on Xiamen Airlines and participating partner services. Elite recognition and benefits may extend to qualifying SkyTeam journeys, although baggage, lounge and priority privileges depend on membership tier, operating carrier and fare conditions.

A notable strength is the breadth of the airline’s domestic connectivity, especially for travellers using Xiamen or Fuzhou as gateways to cities across China. Its multiple operating bases can also support practical one-stop itineraries beyond Fujian. The main challenge is product variability: aircraft type, seat design, entertainment and language support can differ substantially between domestic and international services. Passengers should review the operating aircraft and connection requirements before booking, particularly when an itinerary involves separate terminals or a long domestic transfer.