China Airlines is making aviation history with its first-ever direct flights connecting Taipei and Phoenix. Starting in late 2025, the Taiwanese flag carrier will operate three weekly non-stop services to Arizona’s capital city, creating a vital new link between Taiwan and the western United States. The move marks a significant milestone not only for the airline but also for Arizona’s growing role as a global travel and trade hub.
This development is expected to enhance both business and leisure travel, offering passengers seamless connectivity while strengthening cultural and economic ties across the Pacific. With the introduction of this new route, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport joins the ranks of major U.S. gateways served by China Airlines, alongside Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Seattle, and Vancouver.
Phoenix Sky Harbor: A Strategic Choice
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport has rapidly grown into one of America’s busiest airports, handling record numbers of passengers and cargo in recent years. Known as “America’s Friendliest Airport,” it serves as a vital hub for both domestic and international travel.
The decision to add Phoenix to China Airlines’ network reflects the city’s rising importance in global aviation. For Taiwan, this route provides direct access to a vibrant U.S. metropolitan area with strong business potential, growing international tourism, and expanding trade opportunities. For Arizona, the flights open up new channels for Taiwanese visitors, investors, and businesses seeking opportunities in the American Southwest.
Flight Details and Schedule
The Taipei–Phoenix route will operate three times weekly, on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Flight CI 036 will depart from Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport at 16:30, arriving in Phoenix at 13:35 local time. The return service, CI 035, will leave Phoenix at 16:00, landing in Taipei at 22:20 the following day.
This schedule has been carefully designed to allow convenient onward connections. Passengers traveling from Taiwan will benefit from same-day arrivals in Arizona, while those departing Phoenix can connect easily to Asia and beyond.
Strengthening Regional Connectivity
China Airlines’ entry into Phoenix is part of its broader strategy to strengthen transpacific connectivity. The airline has partnered with Southwest Airlines, enabling travelers arriving in Phoenix to connect seamlessly to more than 50 U.S. cities. These include major destinations such as Denver, Dallas, Houston, Las Vegas, and Chicago, making the service particularly valuable for passengers connecting beyond Arizona.
For leisure travelers, the partnership opens the door to exploring iconic American destinations from one convenient hub. For business passengers, it means faster, more efficient access to commercial centers across the U.S.
Expanding North American Presence
China Airlines already operates a strong North American network, with direct services to major cities including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, New York, and Vancouver. With Phoenix added to its schedule, the airline will operate 40 round-trip flights per week across the Pacific, underlining its commitment to serving the growing demand for U.S.–Taiwan travel.
This expansion comes at a time of rising demand for international air travel. According to industry forecasts, transpacific passenger volumes are expected to grow steadily through 2030, supported by business exchanges, tourism, and academic partnerships. By adding Phoenix to its route map, China Airlines is positioning itself at the forefront of this growth.
Beyond Passenger Travel: Cargo Opportunities
The new Taipei–Phoenix service also has strong implications for cargo transport. China Airlines has long been a leader in cargo services, and the Phoenix route will provide a faster and more reliable link for goods traveling between Asia and the American Southwest.
Electronics, medical supplies, and manufacturing components are among the key exports from Taiwan, while Arizona is a growing hub for industries such as semiconductors, aerospace, and renewable energy. The direct flights are expected to boost bilateral trade and support supply chain resilience between the two economies.
Fleet and Service Enhancements
To support its growing network, China Airlines continues to expand and modernize its fleet. The Taipei–Phoenix flights will be operated using advanced long-haul aircraft equipped with state-of-the-art cabins, ensuring a comfortable and efficient travel experience.
Passengers can expect spacious seating, modern inflight entertainment, and enhanced dining options featuring both Taiwanese specialties and international cuisine. The airline is also investing in sustainability measures, including fuel-efficient aircraft and eco-friendly operations, aligning with global aviation goals.
Global Expansion Strategy
The Phoenix launch comes as part of China Airlines’ broader international expansion. In its winter 2025 schedule, the airline will increase frequencies on routes such as Taipei–Tokyo Narita and Taipei–London, while preparing to relocate to the new Terminal One at New York’s JFK Airport in 2026.
These moves demonstrate the airline’s commitment to strengthening its global footprint while meeting rising passenger demand. By offering more destinations and better connectivity, China Airlines is solidifying its role as a leading carrier in the Asia-Pacific region.
Boosting Tourism and Cultural Exchange
The new flights are expected to significantly increase tourism flows between Taiwan and Arizona. For American travelers, Taiwan offers a dynamic mix of modern cities, historic temples, scenic landscapes, and culinary delights. Meanwhile, Taiwanese visitors will gain easier access to Arizona’s renowned attractions, including the Grand Canyon, Sedona’s red rock formations, and Scottsdale’s desert resorts.
Beyond tourism, the flights will also foster deeper cultural and educational exchanges. Universities in Arizona are anticipated to benefit from stronger links with Taiwanese institutions, encouraging academic collaboration and student mobility.
A Milestone for Taiwan–U.S. Relations
The Taipei–Phoenix service is more than just a new flight route—it represents a milestone in Taiwan–U.S. relations. By expanding direct connections, China Airlines is helping bridge geographical distance, support economic partnerships, and create new opportunities for travelers and businesses alike.
As the service launches in 2025, it will mark the beginning of a new era of connectivity, reinforcing Phoenix’s role as an emerging international hub and cementing China Airlines’ reputation as a forward-looking global carrier.
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