Air China typically offers Business and Economy cabins (with First or Premium Economy on some widebody/long-haul routes). Cabins differ notably in seating, catering, baggage allowance and mileage accrual.
For short routes economy is usually the best value; on overnight or long-haul flights Business meaningfully improves rest. Watch for upgrade offers with miles or cash around check-in time.
Product-wise: Air China is the PRC’s only flag carrier, known for its golden phoenix livery and the most complete long-haul network among mainland airlines — nonstop from Beijing to major gateways across Europe, North America and Oceania. PhoenixMiles members earn and redeem across all Star Alliance carriers.
On loyalty: PhoenixMiles members accrue miles by cabin, and elite tiers add seat, baggage and lounge benefits — worth joining if you fly Air China often.