Hanian Airlines - Best Airline in China

Hainan Airlines have been selected as the “Best Airline in China” in the Skytrax 2008 World Airline Awards. London-based Skytrax evaluates the quality of 25 different aspects of an airline’s product and service and is the only recognized global passenger survey of airline quality standards. Over 15 million respondents were surveyed online, via e-mail, in panel interviews, by telephone, and in person from August 2007 to June 2008.

Hainan Airlines is a well known brand, with an extensive route system. It is part of the HNA Group. Having started operations in 1993, the airline has, over the years, collected numerous awards for service, punctuality, and operational excellence. In the United States, however, Hainan is a relatively new name on the trans-Pacific scene, but is rapidly earning a reputation for fine service that sets it apart. Having begun non-stop service from Seattle to Beijing in June 2008, the airline pleasantly surprises first time flyers with attentive flight attendants and bright, clean and comfortable cabins. While a launch customer for the Boeing 787, Hainan has begun the route with a new Airbus A330-200 with 36 Business Class and 185 Economy Class seats. The aircraft is equipped with a personal entertainment system on demand for every passenger that provides a choice of 50 each video and audio selections, 10 games, a continuously updating route progress map, and other features. Both Chinese and Western cuisine are offered.

Hainan’s spacious Business Class cabin has been lauded by travelers for its plush, comfortable seats that recline to a fully flat 180 degrees. A generous 74 inch pitch, larger than some airlines’ First Class seat pitch, allows even basketball players to stretch out. Fine cuisine, served on Wedgwood china, is complemented by fine wines and amenities. There’s even an espresso machine on board. How could an airline operate to and from Seattle and not offer lattes?

Hainan’s international Business Class passengers are also treated as honored guests upon arrival and departure from Beijing’s Capital International Airport Terminal 2. Complimentary private limo service is provided between the airport and points within the city. This can be arranged as little as four hours before departure or as long as 30 days ahead. Seattle is the closest U.S. city with nonstop service to Beijing, with the flight lasting only about leven hours. Beijing is a popular gateway to the rest of China as well as exotic locales such as Mongolia and Kazakhstan.