BEIJING, June 15 -- Hainan Airlines began operating China's first direct flight to Silicon Valley on Monday.

The new route linking Beijing to San Jose of the U.S. is operated five times a week on Boeing 787.

"China is pursuing quality economic growth that's partly driven by the development of the Internet industry. The new route can surely facilitate the industry communication for entrepreneurs from Beijing and Silicon Valley," said Mou Weigang, vice Chairman of Hainan Airlines.