European carrier launches non-stops to Hangzhou

BEIJING - Air France-KLM Group, Europe's largest airline, will start flying nonstop between Amsterdam and Hangzhou from May 8, making it the first European carrier to launch a new route to China after the global economic crisis struck a devastating blow to the industry since late 2008.

The new service, to be operated three times a week, reflects a steady improvement in international routes from the precipitous fall in demand that characterized the early part of 2009, analysts said.

KLM will fly the route with the Boeing 777-200 ER, which can carry 318 passengers, Air France-KLM said on Monday. The two airlines officially merged in 2004 by forming a holding company, but maintained their distinct identities.