Thinking about visiting China—whether to see family, explore history, or simply enjoy a new adventure? Many seniors wonder: “Are there still direct flights from the U.S. to China, or are those gone for good?”
The answer is: yes, there are still direct flights—but far fewer than before. Travel between the two countries has changed a lot in recent years, and knowing your options makes all the difference. If you’d like up-to-the-minute details, you can always call (844) 734-0813 to check nonstop availability.
Yes—but the landscape looks different than it did a few years ago.
Before 2020, dozens of nonstop flights operated daily between U.S. cities and China. Today, only a fraction remain. Routes have been reduced due to international regulations, airline decisions, and shifts in travel demand.
That said, seniors planning to travel can still find nonstop flights—especially if they live near major hubs like Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Seattle.
👉 On average, a direct flight from the U.S. to China takes 12 to 14 hours, so choosing the right route can make the journey more comfortable.
While options are limited, both U.S. and Chinese carriers continue to operate select nonstop routes:
United Airlines – flights from San Francisco (SFO) or Los Angeles (LAX) to Shanghai or Beijing.
American Airlines – occasional service from Dallas (DFW) or Los Angeles to Beijing or Shanghai.
Delta Air Lines – nonstop flights from Seattle (SEA) or Detroit (DTW).
Chinese carriers – Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, and Hainan Airlines still connect U.S. hubs with Beijing, Shanghai, and other major cities.
Because these routes can shift seasonally, it’s wise to double-check flight schedules on Google Flights or the airline’s website.
Example: James, age 68, booked a nonstop Delta flight from Seattle to Shanghai. He said, “It was long, but skipping a layover made the whole trip feel easier to handle.”
Stay hydrated and bring your own refillable water bottle.
Wear compression socks and move around when possible.
Bring snacks, reading material, or a small travel pillow for comfort.
West Coast airports (LAX, SFO, SEA) often have the most nonstop options.
Seniors on the East Coast may find one-stop routes through Chicago or Dallas.
Ensure you have a valid China visa—requirements can change, so check official resources before booking.
Pack essential medications in your carry-on.
Consider travel insurance for peace of mind.
If you can’t find a nonstop option, one-stop connections through Tokyo, Seoul, or Hong Kong are common.
While this adds a few extra hours, many seniors find the journey manageable with airport assistance. In fact, some connections can even make the trip easier by allowing a stretch break between flights.
Example: Margaret, age 72, flew Los Angeles–Seoul–Shanghai with wheelchair assistance during her layover. She shared: “I was nervous at first, but the staff were so helpful that the stopover actually gave me time to recharge.”
Despite flight changes, China remains one of the most rewarding destinations for senior travelers:
The Great Wall – with cable cars for easier access.
Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an – cultural history at its finest.
Shanghai’s modern skyline – paired with relaxing garden strolls.
Family visits – many seniors travel to reconnect with children or grandchildren abroad.
So, are there no direct flights from the U.S. to China anymore? The truth is, yes—there are still direct options, but fewer than before. Seniors can still enjoy nonstop travel, especially from major U.S. hubs, with the right planning and preparation.
📞 Call (844) 734-0813 today to confirm nonstop flight schedules.
Visit airline websites or Google Flights for updated US–China routes.
Ask fellow travelers about their recent flight experiences.
Bookmark this guide for your next planning session.
Share this with a friend or family member heading to China soon.
Travel may look different now, but with a nonstop or carefully planned route, your journey to China can still be smooth, memorable, and fulfilling.