China Southern marks 70 years with expanding global network

International

The Guangzhou-based airline carried 174 million passengers in 2025 and operates a fleet of 972 aircraft as it marks its anniversary with a Times Square appearance in New York

China Southern Airlines is celebrating its 70th anniversary with an international network that now extends far beyond its home base in Guangzhou. The carrier marked the anniversary together with the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival on giant LED screens in New York’s Times Square on September 25.

The event also highlighted China Southern’s links between China and North America. Its nonstop Guangzhou-New York service is marking its 12th anniversary this year, while direct flights from Guangzhou also serve Los Angeles, San Francisco, Toronto and Vancouver.

Network reaches more than 1,000 destinations

China Southern says its wider network, including connecting services, reaches 177 countries and more than 1,000 destinations.

Guangzhou remains central to the airline’s international operations. The carrier has developed the southern Chinese metropolis into a major connecting point for traffic between China and international markets.

The North American services form part of this strategy, providing direct access to Guangzhou as well as onward connections within China and across the airline’s broader Asian network.

Fleet approaches 1,000 aircraft

China Southern operated 972 aircraft at the end of 2025. Its fleet includes Boeing 787 and 777 aircraft as well as Airbus A350s and A330s. Chinese-built C909 and C919 aircraft are also part of the fleet.

The airline carried 174 million passengers during 2025 and reports an on-time performance of 91.01 percent. According to China Southern, its operations have accumulated more than 30 million consecutive safe flight hours.

The figures underline the scale the carrier has reached seven decades after its origins in Guangzhou, with both domestic and international operations contributing to one of the world’s largest airline networks.

Sustainability and onboard product in focus

China Southern is also investing in changes to its onboard product. Its “Gourmet Southern Airlines” initiative combines regional cuisine with revised amenities, activities for families and elements of Chinese culture.

Environmental measures include the use of sustainable aviation fuel, more fuel-efficient operating procedures and efforts to reduce waste. The airline is also introducing carbon-footprint information for meals and biodegradable alternatives to some single-use plastics.

The anniversary campaign in New York coincides with the Mid-Autumn Festival, traditionally associated with family reunions and togetherness. For China Southern, the occasion provides an international backdrop for presenting the development of its network and its role in connecting Guangzhou with markets across Asia, North America and other regions.