Originally Posted by
IluvSQ
Why is MF ( Xiamen Airlines) and "obscure" airline? Some 200 aircraft, formerly Star Alliance, now Sky Team, owned by China Southern, one of the world's largest airlines...
Agree with you that Xiamen Air is hardly obscure, but don't believe they were ever in Star. China Southern is their main investor and both are Sky Team members. Perhaps you are thinking of Shanghai Airlines which was Star until China Eastern bought them and pulled them over into Sky Team.
OP, you are looking very early which is good. No need to book now. Booking 2-3 months before date of travel should be fine and you will have a feel by then for prices.