MAXjet Airways today expressed its disappointment in not being named the 2009 U.S. government-designated airline to offer nonstop service to China, but the carrier vows to compete for future China international route authority business, MAXjet said.

"We knew we were the underdog in being awarded service to China. Our business model is right for China but an airline with an older, traditional multi-class model was chosen," said MAXjet CEO Bill Stockbridge.

"MAXjet is an international airline with great promise for service to China. We will pursue future government designations that are possible," he said. "We want to bring the West Coast--particularly Seattle, Los Angeles and Las Vegas new alternatives to China, just as we did with our recently launched all business class service from Los Angeles to London. We are an international carrier that specializes in high comfort, long-haul travel--at low comparable fares. We will continue to pursue new opportunities where our innovative model will be particularly valued."

MAXjet introduced low-fare all Business Class service between New York and London in 2005. The airline has since introduced service to London from Las Vegas, Washington Dulles, and Los Angeles.

MAXjet was ranked the #2 international airline by Travel & Leisure magazine in its 2007 survey, ahead of more than 300 other international airlines. MAXjet ranked behind Singapore Airlines and ahead of Emirates, Cathay Pacific Airlines, and Virgin Atlantic Airways based on cabin comfort, food, in-flight service, customer service and value. MAXjet was the highest-rated U.S. airline overall. MAXjet was also the only low-fare carrier and the only U.S.-based carrier to rank in the international Top 10.

MAXjet offers fast check-in, spacious airside departure lounges, well-padded deep-recline leather seats with 60" pitch, gourmet four-course meals, on-demand entertainment and an Arrive and Refresh product complete with complimentary hot showers and sauna/steam room upon landing in London, for the price of a flexible Economy Class fare. For additional information, visit www.maxjet.com.