Air China
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As the sole flag carrier in China, Air China has been dedicated to providing private air transport and charter services for Chinese leaders, foreign heads of the state or government and enjoys high global reputation. Furthermore, after being designated as the sole air carrier partner of 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, Air China will be responsible for air transport for Beijing Olympic Games and Handicapped Games. Air China's official joining of the world biggest airline alliance - Star Alliance in the end of 2007 will further escalate its brand value worldwide.
During July 2007, Air China rolled out Interline Electronic Ticketing (IET) with British Airways. The launch of IET between Air China and British Airways enables European and Chinese passengers to apply a single e-ticket for itineraries which include travel on both carriers and to pay less than purchasing from two respective airlines. By the end of 2007, the airlines plans to activate IET with about thirty airline's including Lufthansa, Japan Airlines, Continental Airlines, Scandinavian Airlines, and all other Star Alliance partner airlines.
On August 24, 2007, Naverus congratulated Air China on receiving approval to conduct RNP operations with their Airbus A319 fleet. On August 23, 2007 an Air China A319 departed Lhasa, China using Naverus RNP procedures making it the World's first Airbus to use RNP in revenue service. Naverus, Airbus, the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and Air China all contributed to the achievement of this milestone.
RNP (Required Navigation Performance) represents the most modern aircraft navigation technique. It utilizes GPS and sophisticated avionics to ensure that aircraft stay on precise, pre-programmed paths. Air China A319s will now use this capability to safely guide them through Himalayan mountain valleys when arriving and departing the airport at Lhasa. In addition to providing navigation solutions for terrain challenged airports, RNP can be used to increase safety and operational efficiency while minimizing aircraft emissions and noise at any airport.
This marks the second aircraft type approved by the CAAC for RNP operations and demonstrates their commitment to obtain the safety, efficiency and environmental benefits of RNP throughout China.