Air China debuts B747-8 Intercontinental flight to JFK-Beijing

Air China recently launched its New-Generation B747-8 Intercontinental aircraft on the Beijing-New York route. The debut of new aircraft was made on January 7, 2015. The aircraft landed at New York’s John F. Kennedy International (JFK) at 1.30 pm EST and accorded the customary water cannon salute.

Air China has now become the launch carrier of Boeing’s newest wide body aircraft in Asia. The airline is also the first in China to begin operations with the B747-8i. It is also the only airline in the world to provide nonstop flights between Beijing and New York.

The airline will operate its Flights 981 and 982 with the new-generation B747-8i daily. However, the airline will continue to operate its Flights 989 and 990 utilizing the Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.

Yuelong Zhou, Air China’s General Manager – New York, said that the four-cabin B747-8i is the first aircraft of its kind in the airline’s fleet. He said that the launch of the aircraft will prove beneficial for the customers traveling from New York and other neighboring cities to China and beyond. They will also get increased travel options than before.

Zhou said that the B747-8i, which is configured with four cabins, will offer 12 luxury suites in the first class Forbidden Pavilion. Those booking business class tickets will be offered 54 fully-flat sleepers in Capital Pavilion. Apart from these two premium cabins, the aircraft also features 66 seats in premium economy and 233 seats in economy class. The aircraft has a capacity of a total of 365 seats.

According to the airline, the 180-degree flat-bed seats in the business class cabin will be split between the entire upper deck and the main deck. Most of the seats will be staggered in 2-2 configuration and provide an exclusive private space to the customers.