CHINA. American Airlines is applying for more routes in China and expanding coverage to most cities through a partnership with China Eastern Airlines, according to reports.
American, the world’s biggest airline, is expected to gain access to almost all Chinese cities through a code-share co-operation with Shanghai-based China Eastern, the nation’s third-largest carrier.
The airline launched its first China-US daily direct flight, between Shanghai and Chicago, on Monday and became the fourth US airline to operate a direct passenger service between China and America.
The carrier is applying for more Sino-US flying rights and plans to add seven flights a week next year.
In other news, China Eastern plans to begin a direct service from Shanghai to New York in December.
China Eastern currently operates only one Sino-US passenger route on its own, between Shanghai and Los Angeles. It also has a code-share arrangement with American Airlines on six flights.
Last month Shanghai Airlines and United Airlines signed a code-share agreement that expands international destination options and frequent flyer opportunities for customers of both carriers.
Pending US government approval, the 11 code-share flights covered by the agreement are scheduled to begin on 15 May.
MORE STORIES ON AMERICAN AIRLINES AND CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES
American Airlines traffic and load factor rise – 04/01/06
China Eastern Airlines May passenger traffic up +11.9% – 21/06/05
American Airlines retains world’s largest airline spot – 10/05/05
