STARLUX Airlines, a luxury carrier based in Taiwan, has launched nonstop service between Taipei Taoyuan International Airport and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. The first flight arrived on January 15, marking the start of direct air travel between Phoenix and Asia.
The new route is operated with an Airbus A350 aircraft offering first class, business class, premium economy, and economy seats. Flights depart three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. In March 2026, service will expand to four weekly flights with an additional Saturday departure.
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego welcomed the launch: “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 non-stop service to and from Asia,” she said. “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. It further strengthens Phoenix’s position as a global city and builds upon our partnership with one of Asia’s most dynamic and vital economies. 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.”
Chad Makovsky, Aviation Director at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport added: “We’re excited to welcome STARLUX to Phoenix Sky Harbor. 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.”
According to airport officials, international flights play an important role in supporting regional economic activity at Phoenix Sky Harbor. The airport connects passengers with more than 25 international destinations annually. Its latest economic impact study estimates that international flights contribute over $3.4 billion each year locally; specifically the Taipei–Phoenix connection is projected to add nearly $170 million statewide per year.
City council members emphasized both business growth potential as well as strengthened ties between local industries—such as advanced manufacturing—and Asian markets:
“This new nonstop service between Phoenix and Taipei is a powerful step forward for our city and our region. We’re excited to welcome STARLUX Airlines to Phoenix. This investment brings meaningful opportunities for jobs, business growth, and expanded international access that will benefit residents across our city and region,” said Vice Mayor Kesha Hodge Washington.
Councilmember Ann O’Brien stated: “This nonstop connection reflects how Phoenix’s semiconductor ecosystem is reshaping our economy and our global reach. As advanced manufacturing and technology jobs continue to grow, direct access to Asia strengthens supply chains, supports local businesses, and reinforces economic stability. This historic route offered by STARLUX is an investment in Phoenix’s long-term prosperity and our ability to compete on the world stage.”
Councilmember Laura Pastor added: “This new nonstop service between Phoenix and Taipei is a major step forward for our city and our region. Direct international flights strengthen our economy create new opportunities for local businesses,and make it easier for families students,and entrepreneurs connect Phoenixto global marketplace.We’re proud welcome STARLUx Airlines grateful their investment community.”
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport continues expanding its network of routes alongside other recent additions such as Breeze Airways’ twice-weekly services from Terminal 3 beginning November 2022 (source). Leadership changes within its management team have included Roxann Favors becoming Assistant Director/Chief Revenue Officer (source)and Jay DeWitt named Assistant Director/Chief Development Officer (source).
For details about STARLUX Airlines visit starlux-airlines.com/en-TW; information about all destinations from PHX can be found at skyharbor.com/flights/where-we-fly/.
