Today marks the first anniversary of Air France’s nonstop service between Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and Charles de Gaulle International Airport in Paris. This route, launched on May 23, 2024, is the first direct connection between Phoenix and France.
Phoenix Sky Harbor celebrated the occasion with passengers by offering decorations, giveaways, and macarons to those departing for Paris. The service was recently recognized as the “Sexiest New Long-haul Route” by Cranky Flier, a consumer air travel blog. Brett Snyder, President of Cranky Flier, noted that the award was given because it connects the Sonoran Desert’s beauty with Paris’s glamour. He added that it provides Phoenix passengers more one-stop options beyond Paris.
Initially served by a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner with 279 seats, the route now uses an Airbus 350-900 with a larger business class section and a total capacity of 324 seats. Christine Mackay from Phoenix Community and Economic Development stated that this new route has created significant excitement within the business community and enhances Phoenix’s global competitiveness.
Alix Skelpsa Ridgway from Arizona Office of Tourism highlighted France as one of Arizona’s largest overseas tourism markets. She emphasized that international travelers have significantly boosted Arizona’s tourism industry due to their longer stays and higher spending.
Nathan Fidel, Honorary Consul of France in Arizona, expressed his long-standing support for this service due to mutual appreciation between French tourists and Arizonans. Chad Makovsky from City of Phoenix Aviation praised Air France for nearly doubling the route’s capacity since its launch.
The summer schedule sees flights leaving Paris at 10:45 a.m., arriving in Phoenix at 12:50 p.m., then departing Phoenix at 3:05 p.m., reaching Paris at 10:10 a.m. the next day. According to an economic impact study by the airport, international flights contribute over $3 billion annually to the local economy. The expanded service frequency is estimated to have increased its annual statewide economic impact from $70 million to $103 million.
For more information about destinations available from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, visit their website.
