United Airlines Sends First Flight To Beijing From D.C.

United Airlines flight UA897 touched down at Beijing Capital International Airport on March 29 for the inaugural nonstop flight that connected Washington, D.C. to Beijing.

"This inaugural flight is more than just another service in United's robust global network," said Glenn Tilton, United chairman, president and CEO. "Connecting for the first time two of the world's most important cities is a historic occasion with great geopolitical, commercial and cultural promise for citizens of both the United States and China. United Airlines is proud to fly this new non-stop route."

United flight, UA897, arrived from Washington, D.C. with an almost full passenger load and a group of dignitaries that included the first President of the United States of America, George Washington, portrayed by actor Dean Malissa. United's Boeing B747-400 aircraft also displayed for the first time the official logo of the United States Olympic Committee in recognition of the airline's official sponsorship of the 2008 U.S. Olympic team.