China Airlines began nonstop service between Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) in Taipei, Taiwan with a celebration and gathering of dignitaries marking the first nonstop service between Phoenix and Asia. City of Phoenix officials and China Airlines Chairman Kao Shing-Hwang welcomed this historic flight with remarks about the significance of nonstop flights to Asia, long a goal of city and Aviation Department leaders.
Service on the Airbus 350-900 aircraft with a capacity of 306 operates three days a week (Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays). Flights arrive in Phoenix at 1:35 p.m. then depart Phoenix at 4 p.m., arriving in Taipei 15 hours and 20 minutes later.
“Nonstop service to Asia represents a long-term goal that Phoenix and the region have met,” said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. “This is a vital link, especially with the economic ties that are building between Phoenix and Taipei. It will strengthen international relationships, boost the economy and provide Phoenicians with a critical gateway into Asia.”
The aircraft has a three-class configuration, with 32 Business seats (fully adjustable that convert to fully flat beds.); 31 Premium Economy seats with spacious legroom and ergonomic seating; and 243 Economy seats with standard seating and access to various in-flight entertainment options.
China Airlines Chairman Kao Shing-Hwang said, “It is a great honor for me to personally fly on the first nonstop flight from Taipei to Phoenix. Today’s flight was fully booked, which is a tremendous encouragement for all of us at China Airlines. Today marks another important milestone for our North America network and represents a new chapter for China Airlines in this region. We truly believe in Phoenix’s potential and look forward to building even stronger partnerships here.”
Phoenix Sky Harbor offers nonstop service to more than 140 destinations across the United States and internationally. This new transpacific route grows the existing international service, joining transatlantic nonstop service between Phoenix and London, England and service from Phoenix to Paris, France.
Phoenix international flights add more than $3.4 billion to the local economy each year, according to the airport’s most recent economic impact study.
