Originally Posted by
angetenar
If we approximate EWR-HKG avoiding Russian airspace as EWR-ANC-NRT-HKG, GC map gives a distance of 8645 miles. This is well within the range of the A350-900 non ULR. However, during northern winter when the winds strengthen, the actual flight distance would be a fair bit longer and would probably push the capabilities of an A359. The A359ULR or A35K should be able to do this comfortably. I don't know how finalized the ranges on the 778/779 are, but taking the currently marketed ranges at face value, they should be able to fly this without issue as well.
Correct, the A35K, especially the 322 tonne MTOW version that DL will likely take starting next year ( strong rumour is that DL is looking to launch LAX-SIN with the aircraft), and the 283 tonne MTOW A359 both can make EWR-HKG. However, making the route without severe restrictions isn't the issue. It is all that extra flying. Over an hour of extra flying, especially in the winter time, takes a profitable route into bleeding ink territory. EWR-DEL is pretty much the exception at this point largely because it is the only viable nonstop option to India from North America on UA. Ditto for JFK-DEL on AA. With the PRC flights, West Coast is the stronger POS to begin with, so it makes sense for UA to use the limited number of PRC slots available from SFO/LAX.