Duel in the Desert: Starlux Challenges China Airlines with the Only Non-Stop Taipei-Phoenix Flight
Starlux enters the new Arizona market with a non-stop service in both directions starting in 2026, a key advantage over its rival's one-stop route.
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Starlux Airlines has opened sales for its anticipated route between Taipei (TPE) and Phoenix-Sky Harbor (PHX), marking the launch of its fifth destination in the United States and establishing Arizona's first direct air service to Asia. Flights are set to begin on January 15, 2026, with an initial frequency of three times per week.
This announcement places Starlux in direct competition with its rival China Airlines, which previously revealed plans to fly to Phoenix starting in December 2025. However, Starlux holds a key competitive edge: its service will be non-stop in both directions. In contrast, China Airlines' flight from Phoenix to Taipei will include a stop in Los Angeles (LAX), positioning Starlux as the sole option for a truly direct journey between the two cities.
The decision by both carriers to connect Taiwan and Arizona is a direct response to the region's economic and technological boom, catalyzed by the massive investment from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC). The semiconductor giant is developing several advanced manufacturing plants in the Phoenix area, generating strong demand for business and corporate travel.
“We are honored to launch the first nonstop flight connecting Arizona and Asia,” stated STARLUX CEO Glenn Chai. He added that “as the fifth-largest city in the U.S., Phoenix presents enormous potential for both business and leisure travel. From its rich tourism offerings to its establishment as a hub of innovation and technology, the city continues to attract global attention, especially with the arrival of leading tech companies.”
Which airline offers a direct flight between Phoenix and Taipei? Starting January 2026, Starlux Airlines will be the only airline offering non-stop flights in both directions between Phoenix (PHX) and Taipei (TPE). While China Airlines will also serve the route, its return service to Taipei will have a layover in Los Angeles.
The service, scheduled to operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, already has growth plans. Starlux will increase its frequency to four weekly flights starting in March 2026, adding a Saturday operation.
Flight Schedule from January 15, 2026:
Flight JX 025: Departs Taipei (TPE) at 20:45, arrives in Phoenix (PHX) at 17:40. (Tue, Thu, Sun)
Flight JX 026: Departs Phoenix (PHX) at 22:45, arrives in Taipei (TPE) at 04:55 (+2 days). (Tue, Thu, Sun)
The route will be operated by modern Airbus A350-900 aircraft, configured for 306 passengers in four classes: 4 in First Class, 26 in Business Class, 36 in Premium Economy, and 240 in Economy Class. This premium configuration underscores Starlux's focus on the high-end market.
Starlux's U.S. network is solidified with this addition, joining its existing services to Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), Seattle (SEA), and Ontario (ONT), bringing its total to 35 scheduled weekly flights between Taiwan and the United States.
Furthermore, the codeshare partnership with Alaska Airlines (as verified on the airline's website) will facilitate connections for passengers to and from other destinations within the U.S. via the Phoenix hub, as well as connections from Taipei to multiple cities across Asia.
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