China Airlines Strengthens Its Commitment to U.S.-Taiwan Relations by Introducing Direct Flights Between Taipei and Phoenix This December

Published on September 20, 2025

China Airlines is taking a significant step in bolstering its commitment to strengthening U.S.-Taiwan relations with the launch of direct flights between Taipei and Phoenix, set to begin this December. This new route not only expands China Airlines’ network but also underscores the growing importance of fostering closer ties between the U.S. and Taiwan, both economically and culturally. As direct air connectivity becomes a crucial element in international relations, this strategic move signals China’s dedication to facilitating smoother exchanges and enhancing travel options for passengers between these two key regions.

China Airlines Launches Non-Stop Flights from Taipei to Phoenix: A Milestone for International Travel

On September 18, a delegation from China Airlines, led by President Kevin Chen, visited Arizona to meet with Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. This visit marked an important milestone for both the airline and the city, as it was revealed that China Airlines would be launching non-stop round-trip flights between Taipei and Phoenix starting December 3. The flights will operate three times a week, further enhancing the connectivity between Taiwan and the United States.

This development is particularly significant for Phoenix, as it will be the first time that a Taiwanese airline will offer direct flights to the city. China Airlines has long been committed to strengthening business and tourism ties between Taiwan and the U.S., and the new service is a major step in that direction. The announcement of this new route highlights the growing importance of Phoenix as an international hub, especially given the city’s increasing appeal to both leisure and business travelers.

Expansion of Services and Strategic Growth

Kevin Chen, President of China Airlines, took the opportunity to express his gratitude toward the Arizona government and the City of Phoenix for their crucial support in making this new route possible. “We are excited to bring the convenience of direct flights between Taipei and Phoenix, a city that has seen tremendous growth in recent years,” said Chen during the announcement. The new Taipei-Phoenix service marks a strategic expansion for China Airlines, as it is now the first Taiwanese airline to offer non-stop flights to Phoenix.

The airline has been operating charter flights to Phoenix since 2022, gaining valuable experience in the region. These charter flights have allowed China Airlines to refine its operations, both for passenger services and cargo transport, ensuring that the transition to a full-service, regular route will be seamless. The successful operation of these charter flights laid the groundwork for the new non-stop service.

A Boost to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the U.S. and the largest international hub in Arizona, has seen continuous growth in both passenger traffic and cargo volume. With this new non-stop service, China Airlines aims to bolster the airport’s position as a key gateway for international flights. The Taipei-Phoenix route will not only serve as a vital direct link between the two cities but will also connect travelers to other major U.S. destinations through the airline’s partnership with Southwest Airlines.

Travelers flying from Phoenix will have easy access to over 50 additional U.S. cities, including popular destinations like Denver, Dallas, Houston, Las Vegas, Kansas City, and Chicago. This partnership significantly enhances the travel options for passengers, making Phoenix a crucial stop on the China Airlines network.

Expansion of North American Routes

The launch of the Taipei-Phoenix route is part of China Airlines’ broader plan to expand its North American network. Currently, the airline operates flights to major U.S. cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Ontario, San Francisco, Seattle, and Vancouver. With the addition of Phoenix, China Airlines will be operating 40 weekly round-trip flights to North America, further increasing its reach across the continent.

In response to rising demand for both passenger and cargo services, the airline is also working to expand its fleet. China Airlines plans to optimize its fleet capacity to support its growing regional and long-haul operations. As part of its winter 2025 schedule, which begins on October 26, the airline will increase its daily round-trip flights between Taipei and Tokyo (Narita), offering four daily services. Additionally, starting November 18, the Taipei-London route will see an increase to five weekly flights. The airline also plans to gradually enhance service on its New York route and relocate to the newly constructed Terminal One at New York’s JFK Airport next year, ensuring that passengers benefit from the latest airport developments.

Flight Details and Schedule

The Taipei-Phoenix route will operate three times a week, with flights scheduled for Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. The outbound flight, CI036, will depart from Taoyuan International Airport at 16:30 and arrive in Phoenix at 13:35 local time. The return flight, CI035, will leave Phoenix at 16:00 and land back at Taoyuan International Airport at 22:20 the next day, local time.

A Grand Celebration for the New Route

To celebrate the launch of the Taipei-Phoenix route, China Airlines will host a desert-themed live event at ATT 4 FUN in Taipei’s vibrant Xinyi District. The event promises to be a festive occasion with performances by local singers and balloon artists, creating a fun and lively atmosphere for attendees. Visitors will have the chance to enter a lottery after completing tasks across five exhibition zones. The grand prize will be Premium Business Class return tickets from Taipei to Phoenix, providing a special opportunity for lucky attendees to experience the new service firsthand.

The public is encouraged to attend and immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of Phoenix, also known as the “Valley of the Sun.” This celebration marks not only the introduction of a new international route but also the strengthening of ties between Taiwan and the United States. With the new direct flights, China Airlines aims to further solidify its role as a key player in the global aviation industry, connecting East Asia to North America like never before.

China Airlines is enhancing U.S.-Taiwan relations by launching direct flights between Taipei and Phoenix this December. This move strengthens connectivity, fostering economic and cultural ties between the two regions. The new route highlights China Airlines’ commitment to facilitating smoother travel and deeper exchanges.

In conclusion, the launch of direct flights between Taipei and Phoenix represents a significant step for China Airlines, the city of Phoenix, and the broader U.S.-Taiwan relationship. The new route promises to enhance travel opportunities for both leisure and business travelers while bolstering the local economy and connecting two dynamic regions in the Pacific. As China Airlines continues to expand its North American network, it remains committed to offering seamless and efficient travel experiences for passengers across the globe.