pek-jfk uses oldish 744s with newish interiors. it is worth trying to u/g if you have the means because business class (speaking about the seats here) is quite nice by any objective standard. coach is actually tolerable as well (probably better than you'd expect), but you'd be wise to prepare your own food and entertainment, if possible.
as for pek-sha, it really depends on what type of plane you're flying. i like the 330s the best (most, if not all, are leased dragon air planes). believe it or not, their 738s are my second favorite as long as i can get an EXIT row seat (quite comfy). otherwise, i think the 777s and 747s are more comfortable.
ca has made a great deal of progress over the past several years. in fact, i would almost say that they have gotten their act together (the "almost" is due to the fact that they are still a bit rough around the edges in some regards).
Originally Posted by Marysunshine
Up to now, the only international airline I've flown is Air italia when I went to Italy. In march I will be flying Air China from JFK to Beijing then on to Shanghai and back to JFK. I am just curious. Are the planes old? new? Are the seats comfortable in coach? Do they serve food? It is an afternoon flight out of JFK. Is there any movie, tv, any entertainment that I will understand
?
I understand they do not take reserved seating in advance. Will I have any problem getting an aisle seat near the front of the plane if I arrive early at the airport?
I would appreciate any info or details you think would interest me.