China Eastern Airlines Business Class

China Eastern Airlines is one of China’s three major carriers, headquartered in Shanghai and operating one of Asia’s largest networks. As a SkyTeam member, it connects Shanghai with destinations across Asia, Europe, North America, and Oceania, benefiting from a strategic partnership with Delta Air Lines.

Seat and cabin

The Airbus A350-900 features China Eastern’s newest business class with a 1-2-1 layout, lie-flat seats extending to 75 inches, 22-inch width, and direct aisle access at every position. Each seat includes a 17-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and AC power outlets. The Boeing 777-300ER offers a mix of configurations — newer frames have 1-2-1 reverse herringbone suites while older ones retain 2-2-2 angled-flat seats. The 787-9 provides a modern 1-2-1 staggered layout. Product consistency is the biggest challenge, as the experience varies dramatically depending on aircraft assignment.

Dining and service

China Eastern serves Chinese and Western multi-course meals with Shanghai-inspired dishes including xiaolongbao dumplings, braised pork belly, and Shanghainese-style seafood. Chinese teas and baijiu are offered alongside international wines. Meal presentation is functional with branded tableware. Service is efficient but can feel impersonal compared to premium Asian competitors. Standards have improved on flagship routes to the US and Europe, particularly aboard the A350.

Lounge experience

China Eastern operates business class lounges at Shanghai Pudong terminals, with the flagship lounge offering hot Chinese dishes, a noodle bar, Western options, and shower facilities. The lounges can be crowded during peak hours given the airline’s massive hub operation. At outstations, passengers use SkyTeam partner lounges. The Shanghai Pudong lounge is functional and spacious but lacks the refinement of the best Asian carrier lounges.