Delta Launches Nonstop Service Between Atlanta, China

ATLANTA, June 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) launches nonstop service between Atlanta and Shanghai this weekend, connecting its largest hub and global gateway with one of the world’s fastest-growing markets.

Beginning June 5, the flight will operate twice weekly on 269-seat Boeing 777 aircraft, featuring full flat-bed seats in BusinessElite, as well as Delta’s new Economy Comfort class, which offers additional legroom and early boarding.

“By resuming service between Atlanta and Shanghai, we’re continuing our strategy of connecting the world’s most important business markets,” said Vinay Dube, Delta’s senior vice president – Asia Pacific. “Nonstop service between these key global cities will mean more opportunities for economic development and job growth in Delta’s hometown of Atlanta as well as in Shanghai.”

Delta first launched service between Atlanta and Shanghai in 2008, but later suspended the service amid the economic slowdown.

Delta has expanded significantly into China in recent years, and will operate 47 weekly flights out of China this summer. In addition to the new Atlanta service, Delta will begin nonstop flights between Detroit and Beijing on July 1. Delta also offers service from Beijing to Seattle and Tokyo-Narita; Shanghai to Detroit and Tokyo-Narita; and Hong Kong to Detroit and Tokyo-Narita.

On June 1, Delta announced a new codesharing agreement with China Eastern, one of China’s largest international airlines, which will allow U.S. customers to enjoy convenient connecting service in Shanghai to more than 20 cities throughout China.