Hainan Airlines Restarting Seattle-Beijing Route in April
Hainan Airlines is set to restart its nonstop service between Beijing and Seattle after a three-year pause. The route, which stopped operating in 2020, will resume on April 2, 2023. This makes the carrier the only airline offering a direct connection between the two cities.
Flights will run three times a week—on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays—using Boeing 787 aircraft. The airline’s return fills a gap left since its withdrawal in 2020, providing travellers with a sole nonstop option.
Round-trip fares in economy start at around $1,450 for spring travel. Business class tickets, however, can reach nearly $7,000. Despite the high cost, the airline remains independent, not belonging to any major airline alliance. This limits options for booking with frequent flyer miles or points.
Hainan Airlines does partner with Marriott Bonvoy, allowing transfers at a 3:1 ratio. Yet, industry experts often advise against converting Marriott points to the airline’s programme. Zhu Tao, the company’s chairman, continues to lead the airline, as confirmed in public records for 2025.
The resumed service reconnects Seattle and Beijing without layovers. Travellers now have a direct option, though premium fares remain steep. The airline’s lack of alliance ties may still complicate reward bookings for many passengers.
