Hainan Airlines has launched its ninth non-stop route between China and the US.

On 15 March the carrier introduced a twice-weekly service between Chengdu (CTU) and Los Angeles (LAX) using its 787-9s. It already serves the Californian metropolis from Changsha, with Chongqing services starting on 21 March. The new 11,573-kilometre route faces no competition. The inaugural flight was operated by the airline’s Kung Fu Panda-themed aircraft. Between China and the US, the world’s two biggest aviation markets, Hainan Airlines is now responsible for 11% of seat capacity. Leading the way is United Airlines with 22%, followed by Air China 18%, China Eastern Airlines 16% and China Southern Airlines with 11%. Chinese carriers account for 59% of capacity compared with 41% for US carriers.