10 years from New York area, as direct flights have grown to become a 'vital link'

United Airlines has played a key role in the growing link between the United States and China, according to Nicholas Platt, a former US diplomat in China.

"I was there when this all began," said Platt, who accompanied President Richard Nixon on his historic trip to China in 1972. "And now, it's the biggest bilateral relationship in the world."

Dave Hilfman, United senior vice-president of worldwide sales, said the Chicago-based carrier's service to China has grown significantly since the airline entered the Asia-Pacific market nearly 30 years ago.

"China is huge for us, and so is all of the Asia-Pacific region, frankly," Hilfman said Wednesday at a dinner reception at the Asia Society in New York.

Hilfman and Platt were joined by executives from the Asia Society, representatives from the Chinese Consulate General in New York, and United officials.

The celebration marked the 10th anniversary of United's daily direct flights from New York/Newark to Beijing.

Josette Sheeran, president and CEO of the Asia Society, said United has provided "vital links" in the US-China relationship.

United began nonstop service to China in 1986. Today the company serves Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong and Chengdu with nonstop flights from major US cities including Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco and Washington.

In June 2014, United announced its newest China route: San Francisco to Chengdu, making it the first carrier to offer nonstop air travel from the US to the Sichuan province city.

United is a founding member of the Star Alliance, which provides service to 193 countries through a group of more than 20 airlines. Air China is also a member.

Hilfman, who said he travels to China about four times a year, said a main difference he has seen in air travel between the US and China in the last decade is the easing of access to travel visas.

"I was on the inaugural Beijing-to-Newark flight, and I always like to go on those trips," Hilfman told China Daily. "China and the US are excited to promote and encourage visitation. The addition of nonstop flights is good, and not just good for business. It's also great for tourism, and it's good for the region."

jackfreifelder@chinadailyusa.com