STARLUX to Launch First Asia Route from Phoenix in 2026
Taiwan’s STARLUX Airlines is set to launch direct flights between Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and Taipei Taoyuan International Airport, marking the first nonstop service to Asia from Arizona. Announced by the City of Phoenix on May 20, 2025, the route is scheduled to begin in early 2026, pending final government approval. The airline plans to operate three to four flights per week using its Airbus A350-900 aircraft, which seats 306 passengers across three cabin classes.
This new international route reflects Phoenix’s rising profile on the global stage and its transformation into a major business and technology hub. Mayor Kate Gallego called the milestone a sign of Phoenix’s economic momentum, highlighting the connection between growing international air service demand and the expansion of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) in the region. TSMC’s $165 billion investment in Phoenix, the largest foreign investment in U.S. history, has brought thousands of high-paying jobs and strengthened economic ties between Arizona and Taiwan.
STARLUX Airlines, the youngest of Taiwan’s international carriers, was founded in 2018 by former EVA Air chairman Captain Kuo-Wei (K.W.) Chang and began operations in 2020. The airline is known for its high-end service and premium positioning in the market. Chairman Chang emphasized Phoenix’s strategic value, citing the city’s business growth and strong ties with Taipei as ideal for STARLUX’s expansion. He described the Phoenix-Taipei connection as a “perfect match” for the airline’s vision and service quality.
The economic impact of the new route is expected to be significant. According to a recent study by Phoenix Sky Harbor, international flights contribute over $3 billion to the local economy annually. The STARLUX service alone is projected to generate more than $100 million in economic activity each year. This includes increased tourism, trade, and business travel between Taiwan and the southwestern United States.
The planned launch of STARLUX’s service comes at a time of rapidly growing demand for transpacific connectivity from emerging U.S. cities. With Phoenix lacking direct service to Asia until now, the new route fills a crucial gap in air access and enhances the city’s global connectivity. For STARLUX, the Phoenix route adds to its growing international network and supports its strategy to expand into North American markets beyond traditional gateway cities.
As Phoenix continues to attract global investment and strengthen its position in the high-tech and semiconductor sectors, the STARLUX service is poised to become a vital link for corporate travel, economic exchange, and cultural connection between Taiwan and Arizona. The new nonstop flights will provide passengers with greater convenience and help position Phoenix as a key player in Asia–U.S. aviation.
Related News : https://airguide.info/?s=STARLUX