The first direct air route between Beijing and Seattle will be launched on June 9 by Hainan Airlines. This will be the fastest air link between China and the United States.

The new route will be operated by Airbus A330-200s on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Hainan Airlines will use Boeing 787s, on the route after delivery next year.

(Xinhua News Agency May 9, 2008)