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by BA Staff
China’s Hainan Airlines commenced non-stop service from Chicago to Beijing, opening the airline’s newest American gateway. Currently the flight operates twice a week using an Airbus A340-600 seating 288 passengers in a three class configuration. The airline is hoping to obtain government approval to change equipment to a two class Boeing 787 Dreamliner in November, and to increase frequency to four times a week in December, and to a daily by June 2014.
Hainan’s Dreamliner will feature 36 fully flat-bed business seats configured 2-2-2, as well as 177 economy seats configured in the bone crunching 3-3-3 nine abreast configuration. Each seat has a 15-inch touch screen panel and a power outlet. Each business seat also has a USB port.
The current schedule is:
HU498 departs Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) at 3:25 pm and arrives in Beijing Capital International Airport at 7:05 pm the following day.
HU497 departs Beijing at 12:35 pm and arrive in Chicago at 1:25 pm the same day.
On the A340-600, Business class passengers are pampered with priority check-in and access to the lounge. On board, they can relax in luxurious seats that convert into comfortable (160 degree reclining) seats and feature turn-down service complete with fluffy pillows, fine cotton sheets and a duvet, pajamas and slippers. First class passengers enjoy a fully flat bed with the same amenities, gourmet Chinese or western cuisine and wines are served on fine china, glassware and linens; customers may choose when they wish to dine. Freshly brewed coffee and a selection of teas are available. Amenity kits feature famous Bulgari® cosmetics. Individually controlled entertainment system offers over 100 movies, audio selections and games on demand.
In Beijing, with advance reservations, premium passengers are treated to complimentary private Mercedes-Benz® limousine service both on arrival and departure. Those making connections to other Chinese destinations may take advantage of the new business class lounge in Terminal 1 offering a wide range of luxurious amenities.
Economy class passengers can also enjoy complimentary beverages, meals, snacks as well as the same on-demand entertainment system on individual seat-back screens. If connecting in Beijing, an exclusive transit lounge is open to economy class passengers as well.
Visit Hainan Airlines.
