Core Insights - The domestic civil aviation industry in China is expected to turn profitable in 2024, with the three major state-owned airlines (Air China, China Eastern Airlines, and China Southern Airlines) achieving profitability in the first three quarters of 2025 after years of losses [1][2][3] - Despite the overall recovery, low-cost carriers like Spring Airlines and Juneyao Airlines have reported declines in performance, with Spring Airlines losing its title as the "most profitable airline" to Hainan Airlines [1][6] - The international aviation market is becoming a key growth area for major airlines, with significant increases in international passenger turnover compared to domestic routes [4][5] Group 1: Financial Performance of Major Airlines - All three major airlines reported revenue growth and profitability in the first three quarters of 2025, benefiting from the summer travel peak and foreign exchange gains [2] - Air China achieved a net profit of 1.87 billion yuan in the first three quarters, while China Eastern and China Southern reported net profits of 2.10 billion yuan and 2.31 billion yuan, respectively [3] - The three major airlines have cumulatively lost over 200 billion yuan from 2020 to 2024, but signs of recovery are evident, with expectations for profitability in 2025 [3] Group 2: International Market Growth - The international passenger turnover for the three major airlines has significantly outpaced domestic turnover, with Air China's international turnover increasing by 14.9% compared to 1.2% for domestic [4] - China Eastern Airlines has been actively expanding its international routes, recently launching a new route that sets a record for the longest single-route flight [4] - China Southern Airlines has also reported improved international performance, with current metrics exceeding pre-pandemic levels [5] Group 3: Challenges Faced by Low-Cost Carriers - Both Juneyao Airlines and Spring Airlines experienced declines in net profit, with Spring Airlines' profitability affected despite increased revenue [6][7] - The competitive landscape remains challenging, with many airlines experiencing increased flight volumes but not corresponding profitability due to lower ticket prices [7] - The average ticket price has seen a significant decline, with prices dropping by over 20% in some months compared to the previous year, impacting overall revenue [7][8]