News Summary
Phoenix is set to enhance its travel connectivity with the launch of STARLUX Airlines’ nonstop flights to Taipei, Taiwan, commencing in February 2026. This new route is crucial for fostering economic ties and accommodating the rising demand for travel, largely driven by the semiconductor industry’s growth. The service will operate three times weekly from Phoenix Sky Harbor to Taipei, utilizing Airbus A350-900 aircraft. This advancement marks Phoenix as a significant international gateway and is projected to create over $100 million in economic impact.
Phoenix
Phoenix will welcome a significant addition to its travel sector with the announcement of STARLUX Airlines‘ inaugural nonstop flight connecting the city to Taipei, Taiwan. This service is set to launch in February 2026 and marks a pivotal step in enhancing global connectivity for Arizona, particularly influenced by the growth of the semiconductor industry.
The nonstop flights will travel from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) to Taipei’s Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), operating three times a week using Airbus A350-900 aircraft. Each airplane will accommodate up to 306 passengers, featuring various classes: 4 in first class, 26 in business class, 36 in premium economy, and 240 in economy.
According to industry insights, the demand for travel between Phoenix and Taipei has significantly risen, partly due to increased business interaction catalyzed by the substantial investment from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC). The company’s multibillion-dollar chip manufacturing complex in Phoenix has fostered thousands of high-paying jobs and stimulated the need for more direct travel options, leading to a reported fivefold increase in visitors from Taipei to Phoenix over the past five years.
The announcement came during Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego‘s recent State of the City address, where she highlighted the importance of this new flight in connecting Phoenix on an international scale. STARLUX Airlines’ chairman, K.W. Chang, expressed optimism about the potential growth in business ties between Taipei and Phoenix.
Before ticket sales can commence, the new route must receive final government approvals, which will pave the way for the airline to begin operations. The direct flights are expected to provide a practical travel alternative by eliminating the layovers often found in current itineraries, thus significantly reducing travel time.
The introduction of this route is projected to create an economic impact exceeding $100 million for the region. Direct air service will also contribute to the efficiency of cargo shipping, especially related to the semiconductor industry, by minimizing uncertainties that arise with indirect flights.
The new nonstop flights will not only connect Phoenix to Taipei but also serve as a gateway to over 20 Asian cities, including popular destinations such as Tokyo, Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Singapore. This enhanced accessibility is expected to further elevate Phoenix’s standing as a burgeoning international city.
With the addition of this route, Phoenix will become the fifth U.S. city to be serviced by STARLUX Airlines, joining other major coastal cities, including Seattle, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. This historic advancement in Phoenix’s international air travel landscape promises to strengthen economic and cultural ties between Arizona and Asia.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- KTAR News
- AZCentral
- Travel and Tour World
- Wikipedia: Phoenix, Arizona
- Google Search: Phoenix Taipei flights
