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Baltia Air Lines Inc.
(OTCBB: BLTA)
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In the Spring of 2009, Baltia Air Lines
plans to inaugurate non-stopservice between JFK and St. Petersburg.
The firstflight
to St. Petersburg also marks the launching of an exciting new U.S. airline.
A grand
inaugural event is planned for Baltia`s maiden flight consisting of a ceremony at JFK Airport including the christening of
their aircraft, an exclusive maiden flight with 100 honor guests and 180 inaugural passengers, and a very special celebratory
itinerary in St. Petersburg. The date of Baltia`s maiden flight will soon be announced.
It takes time to drive to the airport and checkin. In some cases, the trip can take longer than a domestic
flight you`re on. But a trans-Atlantic flight is another story. You are on the plane for a good period of time. That`s why
Baltia believes you should make the most of it. They`re totally dedicated to making your flight with them as relaxing, comfortable
and enjoyable as possible.
A fine dining experience can brighten anyone`s spirits.
On Eastbound flights,your main course will be served shortly after take off and breakfast an hour before landing. On Westbound
flights, Baltia will serve a continental lunch after take off, a mid-Atlantic lunch halfway across, and a New York deli meal
an hour before landing.
Their First Class quarters are located in the front of the
main deck of the aircraft. The First Class lounge is located on the Captain`s Deck. Dinner will be served by invitation on
the Captain`s Deck in the fashion of the grand trans-Atlantic ocean liners.
Arriving at an airport in an
unfamiliar country where a foreign language is spoken can be a bit intimidating. But you will never feel alone when flying
Baltia. Their courteous and attentive staff will always be there to greet you, guide you and help you get on your way to your
next appointed destination.
The rooster is their symbol of reliability. Dating back
to Roman times, a rooster was universally recognizedas a symbol of punctuality and dependability. For these same qualities,
Baltia`s founder chose the rooster to represent their new airline.
Overview
One Company ? One Team
Baltia`s Route MapDestinations
Baltia travels to the following destinations:
St. Petersburg, Riga, Vilnius, Tallinn,
Minsk, Kiev, Moscow, NewYork
St. PetersburgIn the Spring of 2009, Baltia Air Lines
plans to inaugurate non-stopservice between JFK and St. Petersburg.
Our firstflight to St. Petersburg
also marks the launching of an exciting new U.S. airline.
A grand inaugural event is
planned for Baltia`smaiden flight consisting of a ceremony at JFK Airportincluding the christening of their aircraft, an exclusivemaiden
flight with 100 honor guests and 180 inauguralpassengers, and a very special celebratory itineraryin St. Petersburg. The date
of Baltia`s maidenflight will soon be announced.
City Facts
St. Petersburg is not only the largest city in Northern Europe with over five million residents, it`s the
fourth largest city in all of Europe. In many respects unique to itself, St. Petersburg is on par or even surpasses the greatest
of all European cities ? London, Paris and Rome.
Originally named in honor of St. Peter,
the nameSt. Petersburg, coincidentally enough, must havepleased its founding father, tsar Peter the Great.Founded in 1703,
Peter called the city "Russia`sWindow to the West.? Today,St.. Petersburg is a treasure of unparalleled proportionswith world-renowned
theaters, palaces and museums,fine restaurants and outdoor cafés,and a myriad of elegant hotels.
With
its beautiful crisscrossing rivers and canals,St, Petersburg is a masterpiece of Baroque architecturewith wide avenues and
winding streets, 379 legendarybridges, over 1,000 major monuments and 19 theatersand concert halls. Among its rich array of
culturalattractions are the Hermitage, Peter and Paul Cathedral,Peter and Paul Fortress, St. Isaac`s Cathedral, andMariinsky
Theatre.
Over the centuries, St. Petersburg has served asan inspiration for such noted
historical figuresas Rastrelli, Montferrand, Petipat, Tchaikovsky,Rubenstein, Musorgsky, Stravinsky, Prokofyev, Dostoyevsky,Pushkin,
Tolstoy, and many other world-famous composers,painters, writers, poets and artists.
But
St. Petersburg is much more than one of theworld`s leading culturalcenters. The city is also a major industrial, scientific
and commercial hub ? with400 research institutes, 41 colleges, 787 libraries, 5 major shipyards and thousandsof factories,
many with Western ties. What`s more,
St. Petersburg has beencalled Russia`s ?Silicon Valley? andhigh-tech
center. The key role the city plays inthe economic, cultural and political developmentof the Russian Federation is undeniable.RigaIn
2009, Baltia Air Lines plans to inauguratenon-stop service between New York`s JFK airportand Riga. A grand inaugural gala
is planned for theoccasion. In addition, Baltia intends to developits European hub of operations in Riga.
City Facts
With a population of one million, Riga is the capitalof
Latvia as well as its cultural and academic centerwith 12 major theaters, 8 higher education centers and many research institutes.
Founded in 1201, Riga is also the primary gateway of commerce and transportation to the Baltic States. Located on the scenic banks of the Daugava River at the
Gulf of Riga, the city is the major commercial port on the Baltic Sea coast that remains navigable year round. Established
as a center for high-tech industries, such as electronics and machine building, Riga has also developed over the years into
a major banking center for the region.
On the cultural front, Riga is the home of manyspirited
and joyous national festivities, includingits 800-Year Anniversary which was celebrated inAugust 2001. Walking through the
city, you`llfeel like you`re travelingback in time. Its prominence in the Baltic regionis reflected in its ancient, well-preserved
Gothicarchitecture. Today, you could park a car (only one)in the same ?garage? where Peter theGreat actually parked his carriage
when he stayedin Riga. Plus, such notable Americans as Barishnikov,Godunov and Thal come from Riga, as well as the world-renownedconductor
Maris Jansons.
Riga is truly an elegant European City, consistingmostly
of ?Art Nouveau? stylebuildings. Its sophisticated charm and many wonderfulparks, shops, restaurants and cafes have made ita favorite, world-class destination of tourists andbusiness travelers alike.
LatviaLatvia is one of the three Baltic States that alsoinclude Estonia and Lithuania.
The peopleof Latvia are well educated, skilled, and known fora very strong work ethic. They are commerciallyoriented and love
to travel. The country also hasa vibrant economy with a stable currency.
The Baltic States enjoy a high standard of living.When you compare
such amenities as telephones perhousehold and automobiles per capita, Latvia`s standardof living actually exceeded Japan`s (even duringthe Soviet era). Before that, Latvia
and Switzerlandshared the highest standard of living in all of Europe.
MinskIn 2009,
Baltia Air Lines plans to inaugurate non-stopservice between New York`s JFK airport andMinsk. An inaugural gala is planned
to markthe occasion.
City Facts
Minsk is the
capital of Belarus with a populationof nearly two million. First chronicled in 1067,
it`s a heritage-rich
city that derived itsname from the Russian word ?mena? ? meaning ?change?.
And indeed, change is in the
air for Minsk as itis poised to become a popular European destination.
Located in the
central part of Europe, Minsk isat the crossroads of the Baltics, Poland, Russiaand the Ukraine. As a result, Belarusians
have longplayed a prominent role in European history.
Anumber of American communities can also trace theirroots
back to Belarus ancestry. It is noteworthyto mention that the U.S. national hero, Tadeusz Kosciuszko,who took part in the
American War of Independence(1770-1774), was a Belarusian and a monument in hismemory stands today on Lafayette Square oppositethe
U.S. White House.
The old quarters of Minsk ?Troyskaya Predmestye? datesback to the
16th century, and today, is beautifullyrestored to its original state. Minsk is also hometo many majestic and historic houses
of worship whichstand in testament to the city`s diverse religiousculture, including Catholic, Russian Orthodox, Jewish,and
Lutheran.
Other distinguished landmarks include the OperaHouse, Janki Kupli Theater
of Drama, the Theaterof Light Opera, the Philharmonic, and the ConservatoryConcert Hall.
KievIn
2009, Baltia plans to inaugurate non-stop servicebetween New York`s JFK airport and Kiev.
An inaugural
gala is planned for the occasion.
City Facts
Kiev
in the capital of the Ukraine, and with threemillion residents, the third most populous city amongthe newly independent states.
Founded in 482 as the capital of Russia, Kiev islocated on the banks of the Dnepr River,
a famedand busy commercial waterway which runs into theBlack Sea. The Vikings, who were among Russia`sfirst rulers, chose
to conduct commerce of the timein Kiev which extended all the way to Greece.
In Kiev,
you can see many spectacular architecturalmonuments dating back to the Byzantine period, includingnumerous churches, cathedrals,
monasteries and ancientbuilding and fortress walls. Kiev`s Baroquestyle, which reached a climax in the 18th century,gives
the city a distinctive old-world charm allits own.
Kiev is not only considered the
cultural centerof the Ukraine, but its academic and industrial heartas well. In addition, it is the home of Eastern Europe`sworld-famous
super soccer power,
Club Dynamo.
From Kiev, you can visit all points
in the Ukraine,one of the largest nations in Europe with a populationof over 52 million (equivalent to Great Britain).An advanced
industrialized nation with renowned machine-buildingand aerospace industries, the Ukraine has also becomea leading economic
power.
MoscowIn 2009, Baltia plans to inaugurate non-stop servicebetween New York`s
JFK airport and Moscow.An inaugural gala is planned for the occasion. Subsequently,Baltia plans to provide additional air
service betweenMoscow and St. Petersburg, linking Baltia`s non-stopservice to Moscow with its non-stop flight to St.Petersburg.
As a result, Baltia will offer two flightsdaily from JFK to Moscow and St. Petersburg.
City
Facts
Founded in 1147, Moscow is one of the world`s trulygreat cities. In addition
to being the capital ofRussia with nearly 9 million inhabitants, it`sa pre-eminent industrial, cultural, scientific and educational
center with so much to see, do and experience.
?Today`s Moscow? is a vibrant,cosmopolitan
city that continues to grow and improveby leaps and bounds. You can see and feel the excitementand invigoration on the street,
in the subway, inthe residents` faces.Everywhere you look, new construction is blossoming on Moscow`slandscape, from new shopping
malls and hotels torestaurants, cafes and cultural attractions.
In thecentral part
of Moscow, you`ll find an eclecticblend of modern architecture with architecture datingback to the 15th century, including:
Moscow Baroquestyle, the Classical period, and the revivalist OldRussian style. Arbat and Kutuzov Avenues remain thecity`smost
famous streets, embodying much of Moscow`sold-world charm.
A distinctive pattern of
rings and radials marksthe various stages in Moscow`s progression and evolutionas an urban hub. At the center is the world-renownedKremlin
with the Red Square, followed by the BoulevardRing, the Garden Ring, the Little Ring Railway, andthe Ring Road. Within the
Ring Road area alone, Moscowspans over 386 square miles. Beyond the Garden Ringis a middle zone, dominated by 18th and 19th
centurybuildings, factories, railroad stations and freightyards. Part of the area outside the Garden Ring hasbeen designated
a Forest-Park Zone or Greenbelt.In the 20th century, the outer zone has been thesite of modern factory development and extensivenew
housing construction.
Moscow also has a great Metro (subway) system whichemulates the
city`s street patterns and featuresa remarkable array of architecture in its plethoraof stations. Among the city`s most famous
educational institutions are Moscow StateUniversity, the Timiryazev Academy of Agriculture, Tchaikovsky State Conservatoryand
the Academy of Sciences. Some of the city`sbest-known theaters, museums and galleries are theBolshoi Theater, Little Theater,
Theater of PerformingArts, the Kremlin, Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts, TretyakovGallery, and Andrei Rubliov Museum.
Moscow is also Russia`s leading transportationcenter with railroad lines radiating in all directionsto major
residential and industrial centers in Russia,the Ukraine, Belarus, the Baltic States and the restof Europe. In addition, Moscow
is a major river portserved by the Moscow Canal and various Volga canals,which link Moscow to the seas surrounding EuropeanRussia.
NewYorkAll Baltia flights originate and lead to New York.Baltia Air Lines is based
at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK).
What`s special about that NewYork is
Baltia`s home town and at home,Baltia really knows its way around! Which means Baltia can provide their passengers valuable
recommendations,as well as assist them with hotels, restaurants,performances, and much more.
City
Facts
New York City, also known as the ?Big Apple?,stands alone in the universe. No
literary descriptionor statistical profile can convey the phenomenalsights, spirit and energy of the city. One must cometo
New York and experience first-hand all that ithas to offer to truly know what makes it one of a kind.
New York is the primary gateway for most travelers into the United States of America. It is a fantastic destination
in and of itself, but can also be the starting point of many other sensational travel opportunities in the U.S. Flying in
StyleIt takes time to drive to the airport and checkin. In some cases, the trip can take longer tha a domestic flight you`re
on. But a trans-Atlanticflight is another story. You are on the plane fo ra good period of time. That`s why Baltia believes
you should make the most of it. They`re totally dedicated to making your flight with them as relaxing, comfortable and enjoyable
as possible.
B747 Comfort
Baltia has selected
the four-engine Boeing 747 Jumbo Jet you`ll be flying on for good reason.
It is recognized by the flying
public as the most comfortable among modern jetliners. Our B747 is ergonomically configured for spacious First Class, Business
Class, and Voyager Class service.
Your Crew
Our
courteous and attentive crew sets their in-flight service apart. Our personnel are selected for their attitude as well as
professionalism. Each member of their flight team undergoes extensive initial and recurrent training with respect to both
safety and service. The entire Baltia crew works as one to make your flight safe, punctual and enjoyable.
Our B747 jetliners are piloted by seasoned flightofficers. Our Captains, First Officers and FlightEngineers
have extensive experience, with impeccablesafety and reliability records.
In addition to being knowledgeable
about their destinations,their Stewards speak relevant languages and will seepersonally to your every need and comfort.
Dining
A fine dining experience can brighten anyone`s
spirits. On Eastbound flights,your main course will be served shortly after take off and breakfast an hour before landing.
On Westboundflights, Baltia will serve a continental lunch after take off, a mid-Atlantic lunch halfway across, and a New
York deli meal an hour before landing.
They also offer snacks and refreshments in between
your maincourses. Their Stewards will make sure you are never wanting and always satisfied.
First
Class
You must experience Baltia`s First Class serviceto truly appreciate it.
Their First Class quarters are located in the frontof the main deck of the aircraft. The First Class lounge
is located on the Captain`s Deck. Dinner will be served by invitation on the Captain`s Deck in the fashion of the grand trans-Atlantic
ocean liners.
After dinner, you can relax in the luxury and quietof the main deck salon.
If you choose to read, ouron-board library provides a great selection of notablebooks. A Steward will be at your service in
an attentiveyet unobtrusive manner. Or, if you prefer, youcan also socialize with others in the First Classlounge on the Captain`s
Deck.
Business Class
Baltia`s Business Class
offers business travelers the relaxing atmosphere of a private club with all the respective amenities and accoutrements. Each
seat in Business Class also offers laptop power and an Internet connection (also available in First Class).
Voyager Class®
Baltia`s Voyager Class is their most economical flight
option. You`ll enjoy spacious and comfortable seating and attentive service that will make crossing the Atlantic an enjoyable
and relaxing experience in its own right.
Entertainment
You
can just sit back and relax in comfort, or choose a variety of wonderful entertainment options to helpkeep you busy and pass
the time. On their wide-screenmonitors, you can watch the Baltia Journal (an informative program) as well as World News broadcasted
live and brought to you in real time so you`re never out of touch with what`s going on around you.
You can also enjoy great feature-length movies and music available on their diversein-flight music channels.
They may have other surprises in store for you as well. For example, as part of Baltia`s
?Flying Celebrity Program?, you could be entertained by a special guest who will perform live on board. It`s all part of their
commitment to help make flying with them as enjoyable and memorable as possible.
Baltia
Magazine
Baltia Magazine is their monthly in-flight publication filled with fun, interesting
information about their destinations as well as other general interest articles specially designed for the world traveler.
You`llfind stories on fascinating people, exciting events,upcoming attractions and entertainment, plus handyand helpful listings
for restaurants, hotels, theaters,museums and more. Please feel free to take a copy with you.
Irresistible
Shopping
Buy a special gift for yourself or someone you care about. Baltia`s exclusive
merchandise catalog makes it easy and convenient. You can also order items through their reservations department. Please feel
free to take their in-flight catalog with you.
AtYour Destination
Baltia
is there for you
Arriving at an airport in an unfamiliar country where a foreign language
is spoken can be a bit intimidating. But you will never feel alone when flying Baltia. Their courteous and attentive staff
will always be there to greet you, guide you and help you get on your way to your next appointed destination.
It is always wise to make your travel arrangements ahead of time through Baltia. But if an unexpected need
arises or you decide to change or expand your itinerary, don`t worry. Baltia representatives will help you, making your trip
smoother and easier.
Ground Transport
First
Class and Business Class passengers will enjoy a complimentary limousine ride from the airport tothe hotel, home or business
they designate. Limousine service is also available to Voyager Class passengers at a reasonable fee. In addition, their personnel
can give you advice and information on the best public transportation available, as well as making group arrangements.
Hotels
When you book your hotel through Baltia,
you are taking advantage of the best deals available with the finest hotels.
Car Rental
Baltia offers the best rates with quality car rental companies. Plus, it`s fast and
easy to book through their Reservations agents.
Art and Performances
When arriving at an over seas destination, it is empowering to have a local arts and entertainment expert
at your service. Consider it Baltia. Our passenger service staff can tell you about current art exhibitions, shows and other
entertainment. Even better, they can help get you tickets at a fairprice!
Restaurants
Baltia passenger service personnel can also recommend the finest restaurants and cafés
at their destinations and assist you with reservations.
Tours
Our staff is knowledgeable about different tours at their destinations and can help arrange a tourfor a single
passenger or a group. Let us help you see what you want to see and find a great value as well.
Contacts
Baltia Air Lines has valuable local contacts. It is their pleasure to serve you and help
you in everyway possible. Please do not hesitate to ask us when you need information, a lead or an introduction. Even if the
staff member that you speak with does not have a ready answer, Baltia representatives will work together to find what you
need quickly and efficiently.
Club Baltia
Club
Baltia services are complimentary to Firstand Business Class passengers.
Airport Lounge
In the relaxing atmosphere of their airport lounge,Baltia staff members will wait on you,
serving snacksand beverages. They are also there to assist you withconnections and reservations for hotels, restaurants, theater
tickets and other travel-related matters.
Business Center
For
passengers who may wish to take care of last-minute business, Baltia has a business center located in a private section of
their lounge with skilled administrative and secretarial staff to assist you.
Personal
Chauffeur
First Class ? Prior to departure, an appropriately attired chauffeur will
arrive at your home, hotel, or office. He or she will pick up your luggage and drive you to the airport in a limousine. At
the terminal ramp, a member of their staff will then greet you and personally escort you to Club Baltia check-in.
First and Business Class ? When arriving at your destination, a chauffeur will meet you and drive you to your
home, hotel or office. At the Customs exit, a member of their staff will be on hand should you need assistance.
Jet Connection
Through their partners, they can arrange a business
jet or helicopter service in conjunction with a Baltia flight. Their Reservations and Club Baltia staff will provide you details
on the availability and rates, and make the necessary arrangements. You can also apply your Freeloadermiles for a Jet Connection.
BaltiaVacations
In cooperation with their partners,
Baltia offers exciting,culturally oriented vacation packages to their customers.Baltia Vacations will be tailored not only
to meet your expectations, but to exceed them. For details, please contact Baltia Reservations.
Imperial
Vacation
Imperial Vacation packages are designed for those travelers who desire romantic
luxury. Packages include the finest accommodations,dining and exquisite cultural opportunities.
Family
Vacation
Especially designed for families with teens, these enlightening and entertaining
vacations are culturally oriented with lots of fun things to see and do for the entire family. Packages include fine accommodations,
dining, theater, museum, attractions and more.
Explorers Vacation
Explore culture, science, art; meet people, make friends, build relationshipsfor the future. Their Explorer
Vacations are designed for budget-minded travelers who also want comfortand quality. They are particularly well suited foracademic
and professional groups as well as studentgroups (high school and college) with accompanyingfaculty.
NewMeaning of Time
Their Personnel is Working Around Your Schedule!
For the convenience and peace of mind of their passengers, Baltia does everything
possible to adhere to stated departure and arrival times. They give truemeaning to the terms departure and arrival time.
?Departure? is that point in time when passengers stop boarding (aircraftdoors are closed).
?Arrival? is that point in time when passengers begin to disembark
(aircraftdoors are open).
Their Reasoning
Baltia`s departure and
arrival procedures are set up for your convenience.
When Baltia publishes its schedule,
Baltia is in effect telling its passengers that if he or she can get to the gate by the scheduled departure time, they will
be able to board the aircraft. They think that is logical. They don`t believe that you should have to remember petty rules,
like arriving at your gate 30, 45 or 60 minutes early, or else.
To help ensure that
you don`t miss your flight,however, they do recommend that you arrive at the terminal with sufficient time to check in, go
through security and walk to the gate, with still some time to spare. In order not to make the journey aboard the airplanelonger
than necessary, Baltia commences boarding not more than 30 minutes before the flight and will continueto board up to the scheduled
departure time.
For an arriving passenger, as well as their familyand friends who are
waiting at the terminal for theirflight to arrive, arrival time has meaning onlywhen passengers are actually stepping off
the aircraft.
Baltia Rooster
The rooster is
their symbol of reliability. Dating back to Roman times, a rooster was universally recognizedas a symbol of punctuality and
dependability. For these same qualities, Baltia`s founder chose the rooster to represent their new airline.
Throughout American history, the rooster has beenan icon, particularly in New York. On the bright,sunny day
of May 24th, 1883, the Brooklyn Bridgewas officially opened in New York, and the first person to cross the bridge carried
a live roosteras a sign of victory and accomplishment. She was Emily Roebling, the wife of famed civil engineer Washington
Roebling who supervised construction of the Brooklyn Bridge. Emily was so instrumental in her husband`s work she was given
the honor of traversing the bridge first from Brooklyn to Manhattan. As she rode across in horse-drawn carriage with the rooster
in her arms, all the men who had been working on the bridge raised their hats in triumphand cheered the historic moment.
But there`s more to their rooster story. In European folklore, a golden rooster is also
a goodluck charm. Just look skyward. Ever vigilant and watching over all, the rooster sits a top many spires and buildings
in New York City as well as on church towers throughout Europe. You can also see the revered image on countless weather vanes
of homes all overthe countryside.
One of the largest and most grand rooster effigies
in the world is the golden roosterperched a top the spire of St. Peter`s Church in Riga, Latvia. The church was once the tallest
building in Europe before the Eiffel Tower was erected. Over 360 feet up in the air, the golden rooster is the size of a horse.
Contact Information
Public relations:
Bob Strom
Vice President Public Relations
Tel (818) 216-1103
Website www.baltia.com
Investor relations:
Barry Clare
Vice
President, Finance
Tel (212) 464-8201
Corporate address:
Baltia Air Lines, Inc.
63-25 Saunders St, Ste 7I
Rego Park, NY 11374
Tel (718) 275-5205
Fax (718) 275-4731
Base
of operations:
Baltia Air Lines
Terminal 4
John
F. Kennedy Int`l Airport
Tel (718) 751-4999
Fax (718) 751-4998--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Delta Makes First Move for 2008 China Routes with Filing for New Nonstop Flights between Atlanta and Shanghai
Route would boost trade and tourism worldwide by connecting the world's largest airline hub in Atlanta
with China’s financial capital
Delta Air Lines today filed an application with the U.S. Department of Transportation to offer customers the
first and only nonstop flights between the world’s largest airline hub in Atlanta and China’s commercial and financial
capital of Shanghai. The application officially launches Delta’s case for entry into the U.S.-China market under
the 2004 U.S.-China Air Services Agreement.
“Delta is without question the best choice for the next airline designation to China,” said Delta
CEO Gerald Grinstein. “As the airline serving more worldwide destinations than any other carrier and as the steward
of the world’s largest airline hub in Atlanta, we are confident that this new route will provide a significant boost
to trade and tourism worldwide and unparalleled access for customers traveling to and from China.
“Delta’s new flights to Shanghai will also fill a critical void in air travel today – the
lack of service between the Southeastern United States and China and the lack of U.S. carrier service between the Eastern
U.S. and Shanghai – by providing improved access for customers in more than 130 destinations across the United States,”
Grinstein said.
Delta’s service would provide a much-needed link between fast-growing communities in the Southeastern
U.S. and economies across mainland China. In the filing, Delta proposes to provide customers with daily, year-round
nonstop service between Atlanta and Shanghai, beginning March 25, 2008.
“Delta's filing is just the latest in a long line of good news coming from our hometown airline," Georgia
Governor Sonny Perdue said. "Delta's international focus is a tremendous complement to our new Global Georgia initiative,
and in particular, the opening of our office in China this year. We will continue to support this great Georgia company as
it connects our state to new destinations across the world, boosting Georgia’s economic development and tourism efforts."
The 55 million people in the Southeastern United States are dramatically underserved in terms of nonstop and
one-stop service to China. Delta stands ready to fill this void by offering the world’s first nonstop service from the
Southeast via Atlanta by 2008, and is actively working with government, civic and business leaders on both continents to make
it happen. This includes providing technical aviation assistance to the Chinese in the areas of air traffic services and flight
routing, working with numerous Chinese organizations to lay the groundwork for a successful service launch, attending multiple
conferences and workshops focused on China air service in the U.S. and assisting in establishing a consular office for Atlanta
in China.
“China is one of the most significant export markets for Georgia and the Southeastern United States.
We will continue to strengthen our relationship with the People’s Republic of China to help us achieve our long-term
goals of winning the next consulate, new passenger air routes and new business,” said Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin.
“Delta Air Lines – Atlanta’s hometown carrier – combined with the strength of the world’s largest
hub at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, is well positioned to provide positive customer and economic benefits
with the new nonstop service to Shanghai.”
Delta has been active in the China market since 1987 and continues to expand its presence to serve this growing
market. In September 2006, Delta opened its third China sales office in Shanghai, complementing existing offices in Beijing
and Guangzhou.
"Delta's application for nonstop service between Atlanta and Shanghai will link for the first time the capital
of the New South with the business and financial capital of Asia. The Southeast has long been denied nonstop access
to China, and I look forward to working to ensure the Department of Transportation maintains its precedent of opening new
gateways to underserved areas of the country," said U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson.
Added U.S. Rep. Lynn Westmoreland, "This new route to China from Atlanta will greatly benefit Georgia, and
it will be a particular boon to my congressional district, which is home to more Delta employees than any other. With the
Chinese market growing rapidly, there will be a growing demand for these routes. Increasing travel between Atlanta and Shanghai
will make Georgia an even more attractive place to locate a business. Given the fact that access for U.S. carriers to Chinese
markets is still very limited, this new route puts our region at a distinct advantage when it comes to doing business with
China. As the only Georgian on the House Transportation Committee and its Aviation Subcommittee, I'll continue to support
efforts such as this that open up great opportunities for Georgia."
Delta would provide daily nonstop service between Atlanta and Shanghai using its flagship Boeing 777 aircraft
in a two-class configuration featuring BusinessElite, Delta’s award-winning business class service. Additionally,
Delta plans to introduce fully horizontal lie-flat seats on its Boeing 777 fleet beginning in 2008, with new in-seat entertainment
system offering on-demand, digital video and music at every suite and a reclining seat that adjusts to multiple comfort positions,
including a completely flat surface that offers customers a 6-foot 3-inch bed.
“Direct air routes are critical to building global commerce, and we applaud Delta’s longtime commitment
to opening doors for Atlanta around the world. The Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce fully supports Delta Air Lines in its
quest to win a direct air route between Atlanta and Shanghai, China’s business center,” said Sam A. Williams,
president, Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce. “Delta is well positioned to compete for a designation to serve China
in 2008, and we look forward to working with them and other key partners to win this route.”
Delta looks forward to expanding its cooperation with codeshare partner and future SkyTeam member China Southern
to connect passengers beyond Shanghai to numerous other business and tourist destinations throughout China.
Delta’s flagship hub at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the world’s largest
airline hub. Delta and the Delta Connection carriers offer nearly 1,000 peak-day departures to 243 nonstop destinations from
Atlanta – more nonstop flights and destinations than any airline hub in the world. Delta’s Atlanta hub is
one of the fastest growing international gateways in the United States, with more than 20 new international markets added
in the last year. Atlanta is the home of Delta’s largest international hub with flights to 72 international destinations
in 45 countries.
Delta Air Lines (Other OTC: DALRQ) offers customers service to more destinations than any global airline with
Delta and Delta Connection carrier service to 304 destinations in 52 countries. With more than 50 new international
routes added in the last year, Delta is America’s fastest growing international airline and is a leader across the Atlantic
with flights to 31 trans-Atlantic destinations. To Latin America and the Caribbean, Delta offers nearly 600 weekly flights
to 58 destinations. Delta's marketing alliances also allow customers to earn and redeem SkyMiles on more than 14,000
flights offered by SkyTeam and other partners. Delta is a founding member of SkyTeam, a global airline alliance that provides
customers with extensive worldwide destinations, flights and services. Including its SkyTeam and worldwide codeshare partners,
Delta offers flights to 457 worldwide destinations in 97 countries. Customers can check in for flights, print boarding passes
and check flight status at delta.com.
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