It’s a good year to travel to China, as economy fares have been as low as $300 round trip in basic economy. Sales for premium economy haven’t been as widespread; prices for these upgraded seats have generally stayed between $1100 – $1500. But the Los Angeles to Beijing direct route has now been scheduled as a regular sub-$1000 fare spring, fall, and winter of 2019. Surprisingly, Seattle has joined in as well, with rates as low as $922 (including a layover in, you guessed it, L.A.). Seattle’s domestic leg books into economy, but it’s just a quick hop to L.A, where the trans-Pacific legs are in PE. American Airlines is offering the discount in both cities, while Air China has similar fares from just L.A. for Star Alliance members. Current prices:
- SEA – PEK from $922
- LAX – PEK from $976 CA/$986 AA (both direct)
As these are premium economy, fares include checked bags as well as carry-ons, plus quicker boarding than BE. Americans premium economy has a 2-3-2 configuration with a 19″ wide seat (2″ wider than economy) and 38″ pitch, plus an amenity kit. Air China’s version is 3-3-3, 18″ width, 36″ pitch, and slippers – if your times and dates are flexible shoot for AA. This is a solid price for spending half a day in a domestic first class seat, and a good opportunity to see China while flights are on sale.
Sample Route
- Departure: SEA
- Stops: LAX
- Arrival: PEK
How to Book
- Follow link for sample dates or search your favorite OTA / Google Flights for departure and destination
Travel Dates
- March, April, September – December 2019
- 4-day minimum stay required
Where to Stay in Beijing
(SEE ALSO: Hilton Beijing Review)
(SEE ALSO: Renaissance Beijing Wangfujing Review)
Things to Do in Beijing
- Mutianyu Great Wall – (SEE ALSO: Video review of the Mutianyu Great Wall Toboggan Review)
- Forbidden City
- Temple of Heaven
- Summer Palace
- Lana Temple
Good luck and happy flying!
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Dan Miller travels with his wife and 6 (SIX!) children. He loves to help families travel for free / cheap, especially larger families. If you are looking for help, drop him an email at 
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