On Wednesday, March 25, Continental will become the first U.S. carrier to inaugurate scheduled service between New York and Shanghai, China, with daily nonstop flights from the airline’s hub at Newark Liberty International Airport.
The new service will provide daily nonstop flights in the largest U.S.-China market that today lacks daily service, linking the world’s financial center and top business and tourism destination with China’s center for finance and trade.
"China is a valued international market for Continental, and we expect great success from this new nonstop route to Shanghai," said Continental President and Chief Operating Officer Jeff Smisek. "China remains an important business destination, with economic growth projected to continue this year despite the weakened global economy. We are proud to bring our outstanding product to Shanghai by launching this service as previously announced, even as other airlines are canceling or delaying similar routes."
With the success of the Beijing Olympics showcasing modern China to the world, and the upcoming Expo in Shanghai in 2010, Continental expects to see increased demand for service between the U.S. and China over time.
Continental has operated nonstop service between New York and Hong Kong since 2001 and between New York and Beijing since 2005. With the new service to Shanghai, Continental will be the only airline in the world providing daily nonstop service between New York and three Chinese cities.
