How Does China Southern Address The Needs Of The U.S. Travel Market?
China Southern recognizes the growing importance of the U.S. business and leisure travel markets to southern China. To serve U.S. travelers better, we continue to improve service, expand route options and enhance onboard comfort. Our extensive network across China and Southeast Asia gives passengers convenient connections to many regional destinations. We have increased frequency on our Los Angeles route to four daily flights, offering travelers greater flexibility in arrival and departure times. Later this year, we will introduce direct A380 service between China and New York, and we expect to take delivery of additional Boeing 787 and A380 aircraft in late summer or early fall to support expanded capacity.
We are also adapting our onboard teams to better reflect and serve the U.S. market. Following successful programs in Korea and Japan, we will begin hiring local flight attendants, creating cabin crews made up of U.S. residents from diverse backgrounds to offer friendly, culturally attuned service for our increasingly varied passenger base.
Describe China Southern’s Business Class.
China Southern’s business class has earned a 4-star Skytrax rating, reflecting our investment in cabin experience, crew service and aircraft design. On our 777s and other long-haul aircraft, passengers enjoy Asian-inspired cuisine and attentive hospitality. This year we are introducing a new seat design across our long-haul fleet: current 165-degree recline seats will be replaced by true 180-degree lie-flat seats with increased legroom, delivering greater rest and comfort on overnight flights.
What Opportunities Does China Hold For American Travelers?
China continues to be a major destination for both business and leisure travel. Its resilient economy supports a wide range of international companies, driving demand for meetings, conferences and new commercial relationships. For leisure travelers, China’s vast size and cultural diversity mean every province and city offers distinct experiences that can keep visitors engaged for days. Major hubs such as Hong Kong and Guangzhou combine strong business centers with prime sightseeing, shopping, dining and historical attractions, allowing travelers to blend business and leisure in one trip.
Tell Us About Your Career In Aviation.
I earned a degree in foreign languages from the Civil Aviation University of China and began my career in China Southern’s foreign affairs department when the airline was established in 1993. I moved into the international business division and, after seven years at headquarters, took a station manager role in Kuala Lumpur. While in Malaysia I completed an MBA and later served as country manager, where we expanded routes and strengthened operations. In 2007 I relocated to Los Angeles as vice president of the Americas. It has been rewarding to support China Southern’s growth into a respected international carrier and to help shape its presence in global markets.