China Airlines, the prominent airline based in Taipei, Taiwan, is embarking on a significant expansion of its operations in the United States. The airline plans to add new destinations and bolster its long-haul network within the U.S. market. This ambitious strategy is part of a broader initiative aimed at modernizing its fleet and enhancing competition within the trans-Pacific travel sector.
As part of its expansion efforts, China Airlines has pinpointed three new potential destinations in the United States: Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). These selections reflect the airline’s interest in capitalizing on increasing air travel demand between Taiwan and the U.S. Recognized as major international gateways, these cities maintain substantial travel volume and trade connections between the two nations.
Alongside the introduction of new routes, China Airlines is also set to increase flight frequencies to its existing North American hubs. These include prominent airports such as New York JFK International Airport (JFK), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), and Seattle International Airport (SEA). This growth strategy showcases the airline’s ambition to take advantage of the post-pandemic resurgence in international travel, heightened tourism, and strengthening trade ties between Taiwan and the United States.
A cornerstone of China Airlines’ expansion plans is its ongoing fleet modernization initiative. The airline is in the process of upgrading its fleet with next-generation aircraft designed for long-haul routes. By June 2025, China Airlines has a total of 55 aircraft on firm order, featuring 24 Boeing 787s, 10 Boeing 777-9s, and 10 Airbus A350-1000s. These newer aircraft models are more fuel-efficient and capable of executing longer, more direct flights, which are vital for optimizing long-haul travel between Taiwan and the U.S.
The fleet modernization effort will also facilitate the retirement of older Airbus A330-300 aircraft, enabling the airline to manage its routes more efficiently. The implementation of these new aircraft will not only bolster the expansion into new U.S. cities but will also improve the frequency of services to already established destinations, enhancing flexibility for travelers.
However, China Airlines is entering a highly competitive U.S.-Taiwan route market, where its rivals, EVA Air and Starlux Airlines, have also been ramping up their services. EVA Air plans to launch new services to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) in October 2025, stepping up competition in the air travel sector. In addition, Starlux Airlines is poised to commence operations at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) in early 2026, further intensifying rivalry.
According to Cirium data, the combined seat capacity offered by China Airlines, EVA Air, and Starlux Airlines within the U.S. market is projected to increase by nearly 12% year-over-year. This growth in capacity underscores the rising travel demand between Taiwan and the United States, which has been bolstered by the post-pandemic recovery and deepening trade relations.
To support its growth objectives, China Airlines is also reinforcing its strategic alliances with other airlines. In June 2025, the airline announced a new interline agreement with Southwest Airlines, which will commence in 2026. This partnership will offer passengers the opportunity to connect between both carriers at shared U.S. gateways, improving connectivity for travelers flying to the U.S., although loyalty benefits will not be available at the outset.
Moreover, China Airlines continues its collaboration with Delta Air Lines. Through this partnership, travelers can earn and redeem points on flights operated by China Airlines using Delta’s SkyMiles program. This alliance aims to enhance China Airlines’ appeal to U.S.-based frequent flyers who are participants in Delta’s loyalty program.
Notably, China Airlines’ expansion into the U.S. markets encompasses not only new routes but also increases in capacity and presence at key airports. The airline has confirmed plans to transition to the new Terminal 1 at New York’s JFK Airport when it opens in June 2026. This move highlights China Airlines’ commitment to refining its East Coast operations and delivering a more contemporary and efficient travel experience for passengers.
In addition to JFK Airport, the airline intends to strengthen its presence at other vital U.S. airports, including LAX and SEA. The most recent expansion involved introducing services to Seattle in 2024, providing passengers with more direct flight options between the U.S. West Coast and Taiwan. China Airlines also serves significant West Coast airports like San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Ontario International Airport (ONT), although it operated flights to Honolulu (HNL) prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.
As China Airlines prepares to broaden its route network and increase its fleet size, it faces several obstacles in an ever-evolving market. The rising competition from EVA Air and Starlux Airlines compels China Airlines to consistently innovate and provide compelling reasons for travelers to choose its services. Essential factors include launching more convenient connections, upgrading aircraft with enhanced amenities, and diversifying its route offerings.
Additionally, China Airlines must navigate shifting dynamics in international air travel, particularly regarding post-pandemic recovery, regulatory challenges, and fluctuating fuel costs. To maintain its competitive position and continue growing market share in the increasingly crowded U.S.-Taiwan travel corridor, the airline needs to remain agile and responsive to these challenges.
In conclusion, China Airlines is poised to significantly enhance its presence in the U.S. market, not only by expanding its route network but also by modernizing its fleet and establishing strategic partnerships. The airline’s initiatives reflect broader trends in the aviation industry and its commitment to serving passengers with more robust and efficient travel options.
image source from：travelandtourworld
