How Long Does It Take to Fly to China?
Quick Answer
11–16 hours nonstop from the US. West Coast flights are 11–13 hours; East Coast flights are 14–16 hours.
Typical Duration
Quick Answer
A nonstop flight from the US to China takes 11–16 hours depending on your departure city and destination. West Coast cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco are closest at 11–13 hours, while East Coast departures from New York or Chicago take 13–16 hours. Return flights are typically 1–2 hours shorter due to prevailing jet stream winds.
Flight Times by US Departure City to Major Chinese Cities
| Departure City | Beijing (PEK) | Shanghai (PVG) | Guangzhou (CAN) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles (LAX) | 12–13 hours | 11–12.5 hours | 14–15 hours |
| San Francisco (SFO) | 11.5–12.5 hours | 11–12 hours | 13.5–14.5 hours |
| Seattle (SEA) | 10.5–11.5 hours | 11–12 hours | 13–14 hours |
| New York (JFK) | 13.5–14.5 hours | 14–15 hours | 16–17 hours |
| Chicago (ORD) | 13–14 hours | 13.5–14.5 hours | 15.5–16.5 hours |
| Dallas (DFW) | 14–15 hours | 14–15 hours | 16–17 hours |
Nonstop Routes and Airlines
| Route | Airlines | Flight Time |
|---|---|---|
| LAX – PEK (Beijing) | Air China, China Southern | 12–13 hours |
| LAX – PVG (Shanghai) | China Eastern, United, Delta | 11–12.5 hours |
| SFO – PEK | Air China, United | 11.5–12.5 hours |
| SFO – PVG | China Eastern, United | 11–12 hours |
| JFK – PEK | Air China | 13.5–14.5 hours |
| JFK – PVG | China Eastern | 14–15 hours |
| SEA – PEK | Hainan Airlines | 10.5–11.5 hours |
| ORD – PEK | Air China, United | 13–14 hours |
Popular Layover Options
If nonstop flights are unavailable or too expensive, common one-stop connections include:
| Layover City | Added Travel Time | Airlines |
|---|---|---|
| Tokyo (NRT/HND) | 3–6 hours | ANA, JAL |
| Seoul (ICN) | 3–6 hours | Korean Air, Asiana |
| Taipei (TPE) | 4–7 hours | EVA Air, China Airlines |
| Hong Kong (HKG) | 3–6 hours | Cathay Pacific |
| Vancouver (YVR) | 3–5 hours | Air Canada |
One-stop itineraries typically add 4–10 hours to total travel time, making journeys 18–26 hours total.
Why Return Flights Are Shorter
The jet stream blows from west to east across the Pacific at speeds of 100–200 mph at cruising altitude. Flights from China to the US ride this tailwind, making the return trip 1–2 hours shorter. Flights to China fly against the jet stream.
| Direction | LAX ↔ Shanghai |
|---|---|
| LAX → Shanghai | 11–12.5 hours |
| Shanghai → LAX | 10–11 hours |
Time Zones
All of China uses a single time zone: China Standard Time (CST), which is UTC+8. The time difference from the US is:
| US Time Zone | Hours Behind China |
|---|---|
| Pacific (PT) | 15–16 hours |
| Mountain (MT) | 14–15 hours |
| Central (CT) | 13–14 hours |
| Eastern (ET) | 12–13 hours |
The large time difference means significant jet lag. Most travelers need 3–7 days to fully adjust.
Visa Requirements for US Citizens
US citizens need a visa to enter China. Key details:
- Tourist visa (L visa): Apply at a Chinese consulate or through a visa service; processing takes 4–7 business days
- Transit visa exemption: 72–144 hour visa-free transit is available in select cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and others) if you are transiting to a third country
- Required documents: Passport valid for 6+ months, completed application form, passport photo, flight itinerary, and hotel booking
- Apply early: Submit your visa application at least 2–4 weeks before travel
Tips for the Long Flight
- Set your watch to China time when you board to begin adjusting your body clock
- Stay hydrated and avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol
- Move around the cabin every 2–3 hours to reduce stiffness and DVT risk
- Bring noise-canceling headphones, a neck pillow, and entertainment
- Consider a premium economy or business class seat for the 12–16 hour journey