EDIT: The flight and transfer went very well. The transfer time was indeed short because China makes you undergo security scanning, biometry check (passport and photography) even if you are in a transfer and don't go out of the airport. I had little time but I didn't miss the connection.
I booked a flight through a reseller (Kiwi.com) for CDG-BKK through PEK, off-season (November). I plan on having no luggage. The transfer time in PEK is 1h20. I checked online and it seems like the two terminals are the same: I fly Air China and they only use Terminal 3. I am of French nationality.
It will be my first time setting foot in China so I expect to have to go through a complete check for fingerprints, photos, etc.
I read about transfer time online, and the opinions differ wildly (from "at least 4 hours are needed!" to "50 minutes are more than enough!").
I also read the following regarding Chinese airports and security:
- Domestic to domestic: no control
- International to domestic: security + immigration
- International to international : security
I am quite conflicted, and frankly a bit stressed in advance, and I would like to know:
- Is 1h20 enough to go from one plane to another on the same terminal?
- Is there a specific route to follow in the airport?
- What controls should I expect?
- I believe passport + plane ticket should be enough (no visa, no additional documentation). Is this right?
