NW's failed US-China market strategy is also evidenced by its loss of precious partner Air China to UA. As soon as NW discontinued its non-stop to China, Air China sees no incentive to partner with NW. For Air China, NW looks like a Japanese carrier, every flight from/to NRT.

NW competes with Japanese and Korean carriers, which offer two-stop connections from the east coast to many Chinese cities (not just PEK/PVG/CAN). When you look at the consolidator prices, you will know immediately.