PHOENIX — The first STARLUX Airlines flight from Taipei landed at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport earlier this week.
The nonstop service between Taipei Taoyuan International Airport and Phoenix was announced in May 2025 and officially began on Thursday. It is expected to produce significant economic benefits for the Valley.
“This is a milestone event for the city of Phoenix. STARLUX was the first to commit to ending Phoenix being the only major American city without nonstop service to and from Asia,” Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said in a press release. “STARLUX’s new service between Phoenix and Taipei opens the door to expanded tourism, stronger business relationships and new opportunities for companies looking to invest in our fast-growing and vibrant region.”
“We’re grateful to STARLUX and its leadership for their investment, confidence and commitment to our community. Their presence in Phoenix helps bring jobs, economic growth and a brighter future for all who call our city home.”
Gallego, STARLUX Airlines CEO Glenn Chai, airport officials and community leaders welcomed the inaugural flight with a ribbon-cutting celebration.
Details on STARLUX Airlines nonstop service between Taipei and Phoenix
For the nonstop route between Taipei and Phoenix, the airline is using an Airbus A350 aircraft that has a total of 306 seats.
Passengers are able to choose from first class, business class, premium economy and economy when purchasing tickets for the flights.
Currently, there will be three weekly departures on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. The airline plans to add another weekly departure on Saturdays in March, increasing the service to four flights a week.
The Taipei-Phoenix service is expected to generate around $170 million in economic impact a year statewide.
In fact, a recent economic impact study by Sky Harbor showed that international flights contribute more than $3.4 billion to Phoenix’s economy each year.
“We’re excited to welcome STARLUX to Phoenix Sky Harbor,” Aviation Director Chad Makovsky said. “This new Phoenix-Taipei route provides our travelers with the much-desired service to Asia. It not only offers travelers a chance to explore Taiwan, but also to experience the entire Asia region.”
“This new route also supports jobs, brings further economic benefits and creates new opportunities for our airport and all of Arizona. STARLUX was the first airline to commit to nonstop service between Taiwan and Phoenix, and we sincerely appreciate their partnership, investment and commitment to bringing this important service to our region.”
