American Airlines has submitted an application to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for daily service between Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK).

"This new route would solidify Los Angeles as American's West Coast gateway to Asia and it would be our only Beijing access from the western United States, creating new connections to one of Asia's major business and leisure destinations," said Andrew Nocella, chief marketing officer for American Airlines. "Beijing is one of the world's great cities, and nonstop service from LAX would be a great complement to our existing China service."

If approved, American would begin LAX-PEK service on Dec. 16, 2016.

Since 2013, American has more than doubled the number of destinations it serves in the Asia-Pacific region. American currently offers or has announced service from LAX to Hong Kong, Shanghai, Tokyo (Haneda and Narita airports), Sydney and Auckland, New Zealand.

More Destinations

By June, American will have completed two new gates at LAX to support more than 20 new daily flights to nine new year-round and seasonal destinations and added frequencies to existing domestic markets. When the new flights begin June 2, American will operate more than 220 daily flights at LAX with service to more than 70 destinations around the world.

First Class, All the Way

As part of American's US$3 billion investment in the customer experience, the airline is adding more all-aisle access; fully lie-flat seats; international Wi-Fi; more in-flight entertainment options and power outlets; and improved food and beverage offerings.

Starting this spring, American will redefine its exclusive Flagship Lounge location at LAX with more expansive spaces, more modern furnishings and access for more premium customers. Throughout 2017, American will introduce Flagship Dining, a one-of-a-kind, pre-flight meal with full tableside service and elegant dining, at LAX. First Class customers on American's three-class international and transcontinental flights will have exclusive access to Flagship Dining.

Contributed by American Airlines