STARLUX Launches Phoenix-Taipei Nonstop Service
Taiwan-based luxury carrier STARLUX Airlines has inaugurated nonstop service between Taipei and Phoenix, making Phoenix (PHX) the airline’s fifth U.S. destination—after Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, and Ontario, California—and its first gateway in the American Southwest.
The inaugural inbound flight, JX026, arrived at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport at 17:40, receiving a water-arch salute and a gate celebration ahead of the return departure, JX025, which left Phoenix for Taipei at 22:45.
A New Asia Gateway for Phoenix
STARLUX CEO Glenn Chai said the airline is “delivering our promise to Phoenix,” describing the region as a fast-growing market with strong business and tourism potential and emphasizing the route’s role in strengthening travel and trade links between the U.S. Southwest, Taiwan, and the wider Asia-Pacific region.
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego called the service a milestone for the city, noting that STARLUX was the first airline to commit to bringing Phoenix nonstop Asia service. She highlighted expected benefits including expanded tourism, stronger business ties, and increased investment opportunities tied to Phoenix’s growing economy.
Phoenix Sky Harbor Aviation Director Chad Makovsky said the new route responds to long-standing demand for Asia connectivity and will support jobs and broader economic benefits for Arizona.
Partnership Connectivity Across the U.S. and Asia
STARLUX said the Phoenix–Taipei route is designed to work closely with its partnership network, enabling travelers to connect through Phoenix from more than 40 U.S. cities and continue onward from Taipei to 26 destinations across Asia. The airline described the coordinated schedules as supporting smoother transpacific journeys while maintaining its premium onboard experience.
Inaugural Ceremony at Phoenix Sky Harbor
Following the arrival of JX026, STARLUX hosted an inaugural event at the airport featuring a ribbon-cutting, a commemorative aircraft model exchange, and refreshments.
Speakers at the ceremony included:
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Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego
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Phoenix Sky Harbor CEO Chad Makovsky
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American Airlines Managing Director of Alliances Jeff Ogar
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Alaska Airlines Managing Director of Partnerships & International Alex Judson
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STARLUX CEO Glenn Chai
Organizers emphasized the route’s role in strengthening cultural, economic, and aviation ties between Phoenix and Taiwan, as well as expanding premium travel options across the Pacific.
Flight Frequency and Aircraft
STARLUX will operate the Phoenix–Taipei service three times weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, using the Airbus A350-900.
Bottom Line
STARLUX has officially launched Phoenix–Taipei nonstop service, giving Phoenix its first direct link to Taiwan and positioning the airport as a new Southwest gateway to Asia. With three weekly flights on the A350-900 and expanded onward connectivity through Taipei, the route represents a major step in STARLUX’s U.S. growth and Phoenix’s international network development.
