Delta Air Lines Inc, the largest American airline without service to China, has applied to fly non-stop between Atlanta and Shanghai in 2008. The carrier said it has submitted the proposal to the US Department of Transportation, which will award the new flights early next year.

 

AMR Corp's American Airlines also plans to bid for more China flying, spokesman Tim Wagner said. A China route will give Atlanta-based Delta access to the world's fastest-growing major economy. Delta is recalling employees, ordering new regional jets and expanding overseas as it reorganizes and works to fight off US Airways Group Inc's US$10.2 billion hostile takeover bid.

  

(Shanghai Daily January 22, 2007)