Is China Eastern Business Class Worth It?

For Americans planning travel across the Pacific, China Eastern Airlines offers nonstop service from major US hubs such as New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco to Shanghai.

Whether you are traveling for business to mainland China or connecting to popular vacation spots throughout Southeast Asia, the carrier's long-haul Business Class features lie-flat seats and priority airport services.

Here is a closer look at the onboard dining, cabin comfort, and what it’s actually like to fly in the front of the plane.

Brief Info about China Eastern Airline

Source from China Eastern Official Website

Founded in Shanghai in 1957, China Eastern is now a top-ten global airline with a massive fleet of over 800 Boeing, Airbus, and Chinese commercial jets. As a SkyTeam member, it seamlessly connects passengers to over 1,000 destinations worldwide via its central Shanghai hub.

It is also known as one of the three major state-owned airlines in Chinese mainland along with Air China and China Southern Airlines.

Why Choose China Eastern Business Class?​​

China Eastern Airlines Carry-on Baggage Policy​

​​

China Eastern Business Class | Cabin Experience & Amenities​

Business Class | Credit: From China Eastern Airlines Customer Reviews

Cabin Layout​​

• 54 seats in 14-row 1-2-1 configuration
• Rows 1-2 adjacent to First Class, remainder in main cabin

Seat Specifications​​

• Cocoon-style design with direct aisle access
• 60cm width × 190cm length (full flat)
• Semi-enclosed partitions for privacy
• Adjustable armrests

​​Window Seat Features​​

• Private mini-suites with multi-compartment storage
• Integrated reading lights/USB/power outlets
• Touchscreen IFE remote

Convertible Bed System​​

• 180° lie-flat capability
• Raised partitions create enclosed sleep space
• Overhead-stowed premium bedding (duvet/blanket/pillows) upon request

​​Storage Solutions​​

• Console with pull-out tray table
• Control panel storage niches
• Ottoman backpack space + literature pocket

​Entertainment & Amenities​​

• 16-inch adjustable HD screen
• Entertainment library: Int'l films + children's content
• Unbranded noise-canceling headphones
• Cloth amenity kit with L'Occitane toiletries + sleep accessories

China Eastern Business Class | Food and Drink​

Quick View

• The Highlights (Go with the Chinese Menu): The airline shines when it comes to authentic Asian cuisine. Expect locally inspired multi-course dinners featuring dim sum, savory congee for breakfast, and traditional noodle dishes that outperform standard airline food.
• The Western Options: If you prefer Western food, options like roasted chicken or beef tenderloin are always available, alongside a popular service of warm garlic bread and Häagen-Dazs ice cream for dessert.
• The Drink Selection: The beverage menu focuses primarily on local Chinese beers and regional wines (like Ningxia Cabernet Sauvignon), accompanied by a premium Chinese tea service. Note that hard liquor and traditional French champagne are generally not available onboard.

Food offered in China Eastern Business Class | Credit: From The Luxe Insider

China Eastern Business Class Service Framework​​

​

​

China Eastern Business Class Core Menu Items​​

​​China Eastern Business Class Beverage Service Reality​​

China Eastern Business Class | VIP Lounge

VIP Lounge Access At-a-Glance

• At US Gateways: Passengers use partner SkyTeam lounges (like Delta Sky Clubs or Air France lounges) before departure, offering reliable Wi-Fi, open bars, and comfortable workstations.
• The Shanghai Hub (PVG): Access to China Eastern’s flagship lounges (No. 77 in Terminal 2 or No. 137 in the Satellite Terminal).
• The Highlights: The Shanghai lounges are highly rated for their modern shower facilities, quiet nap areas, and a live-cooking noodle station serving fresh local bowls.

How to Get Free VIP Lounge?

• Step 1: Complete 3 orders through Trip.com to become a Platinum member and enjoy the privilege of one free exchange for an airport lounge

• Step 2: Enter the Trip.com App or Trip.com website, log in as a member, select the departure city, destination, date and number of people, and search for flight tickets, and select your preferred flight
• Step 3: Before paying for your air ticket, you can choose to use the Trip.com lounge in "Select Your Add-ons"
• Step 4: Both Platinum and Diamond members can enjoy the membership benefit of free use of the Trip.com lounge at the airport once and twice respectively. After redemption, you will receive a QR Code. Show it at the Trip.com lounge to use it

🔥 Hot Hotel Deals in Shanghai