China : AIR CHINA announces new direct service between Houston and Beijing [TendersInfo (India)]

Air China Ltd., the world's largest airline by market capitalization, announced in a joint press conference with the Houston Airport System on Thursday that it will be launching new non-stop service between Houston and Beijing.

Air China will commence direct service to Houston, Texas, from July, giving the airline better access to Central and South America. In the beginning, the carrier will operate the route four times per week using a B777-300ER.

The trip from Beijing will take 13 hours and 40 minutes, and the return flight will take just under an hour longer.

Zhihang Chi, Air China's vice president and general manager for North America said Houston is a perfect choice for an additional gateway for Air China due to its vibrant business communities and rapidly growing, diverse population. The carrier said Houston offers the most convenient connections to China and beyond for their passengers from Texas and other neighboring states.

Mayor Annise Parker said it is an honor for Houston to become the newest global gateway for Air China as their international growth depends on strong relationships across the world. She said the new non-stop service to China will ensure their success in growing the Texas regional economy and strengthen the global ties to their trade partners in China.

Houston is China's 10th largest U.S. trading partner, besides becoming one of the strongest and most dynamic economies in the country.

The new direct service will make Houston the gateway service point between China and the central and southern United States, attesting to Houston's reputation as a cultural and commercial destination.

Air China commenced its operations to New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco in 1981, this fourth route has come after a long gap of 32 years.