Delta Air Lines Inc. will make its China debut on March 31 when it launches a Shanghai-Atlanta route, a company source said on March 12.

The opening will provide the southeastern area of the United States with its first nonstop China flight, in addition to more convenience for Chinese travelers going to Caribbean and Latin American destinations.

Delta is planning a daily flight between Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport via a Boeing 777-200ER plane that can carry up to 268 passengers.

"Shanghai is a city that pays great attention to business development. The route will serve as a bridge between Shanghai and 65 million residents in the southeastern U.S. who have active trade communications with China," said Delta Executive Vice President Lee A. Macenczak on March 12.