Transportation Team Helps U.S. Airline Win Direct Service to China
In 2007, the Department of Transportation (DOT) awarded Holland & Knight client United Airlines the first ever direct, non-stop service between Washington Dulles International Airport and Beijing Capital International Airport in China. In a competition that included American Airlines, Continental Airlines and Northwest Airlines for this sole frequency to China allotted by the DOT, the landmark flight took place on March 28, 2007. The inaugural flight departed Washington Dulles International Airport on Wednesday at 12:23 p.m. and landed in Beijing Capital International Airport on Thursday at 1:55 p.m., local time. Members of Holland & Knight's Public Policy & Regulation Practice Group were part of the United Airlines team that accumulated 110 signatures from members of Congress supporting United's application. United's codeshare alliances with Air China and Shanghai Airlines will provide a network of 16 daily connections to Chinese destinations. The Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority, another Holland & Knight client, also was a leader in organizing widespread support for China's application.
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