The U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded the new nonstop U.S.-China route to United Airlines, saying that the route will provide the greatest public benefit and promote the national interest by connecting two of the world's most important capitals.

In its decision, DOT found that "United's Washington (Dulles)-Beijing proposal has important advantages that should benefit the traveling public while also enhancing sustainability of the service."

The route that will connect the Washington, D.C., region with Beijing will launch within 90 days of DOT's final order. DOT selected the daily service between Dulles International Airport outside Washington, D.C., and Beijing Capital International Airport over proposals from American, Continental and Northwest airlines.

"We applaud the Department of Transportation on their fair and thorough process and for putting the interest of the nation and the traveling public first," said Glenn Tilton, United chairman, president and CEO. "United Airlines is honored to be selected as the first carrier to connect the governments, commerce and cultures of these two important capital cities."

Meanwhile, the Allied Pilots Association, collective bargaining agent for the 12,000 pilots of American Airlines, expressed its disappointment over the Department of Transportation's announcement. American, Continental, Northwest and United had been competing for the new route authority.

"The pilots of American Airlines were very excited about the opportunity to fly DFW-Beijing," said APA President Captain Ralph Hunter. "We understand how valuable DFW-Beijing service would have been to our airline, north Texas and the broad domestic and international network we serve through our DFW hub. We are disappointed that the DOT has tentatively decided to grant the route authority to United. That said, we respect the DOT's decision and look forward to the next opportunity to expand American Airlines' international presence."

Hunter pointed out that APA had presented American Airlines management with a signed letter of agreement authorizing DFW-Beijing service. The APA-American Airlines collective bargaining agreement contains language governing extended long-haul flying such as DFW-Beijing on a city pair-specific basis only, necessitating an agreement to operate DFW-Beijing.