STARLUX Airlines will bring a major milestone to Phoenix’s global connectivity with the launch of the city’s first-ever nonstop service to Asia. Starting in 2026, the Taiwanese premium airline will begin flights between its Taipei hub and Phoenix, Arizona, marking a new chapter for both the city and the rapidly growing airline.

The route is expected to begin early next year, operating three to four times weekly, pending final government approvals. Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego confirmed the upcoming launch and highlighted the significance of the new link.

“Phoenix’s first non-stop flight to Asia reflects the incredible strides we’ve made with our local economy, and our emergence as an international city,” Gallego said in a statement.

This announcement comes at a time when the Phoenix area is becoming a global tech hub. Taiwanese semiconductor giant TSMC is investing billions of dollars in facilities in Arizona, further strengthening the economic ties between Taiwan and the American Southwest.

Phoenix will be the fifth U.S. destination for STARLUX Airlines, joining its existing routes to San Francisco, Los Angeles, Ontario, and Seattle. The addition of Phoenix to its network underscores STARLUX’s strategy of targeting cities with rising international demand and economic growth potential.

The new Taipei–Phoenix route will be operated by STARLUX’s modern Airbus A350-900 aircraft, offering a four-class configuration: 4 seats in First Class, 26 in Business, 36 in Premium Economy, and 240 in Economy Class. The A350-900 is known for its fuel efficiency, passenger comfort, and long-range capability — ideal for transpacific travel.