TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Starlux Airlines said Tuesday it will launch Taiwan’s first direct flights to Arizona next year, unveiling nonstop Taipei–Phoenix service beginning Jan. 15.

The new route marks Starlux’s fifth North American destination and comes amid a growing push by Taiwanese carriers to tap into Phoenix’s rising demand for Asia connections, per CNA. Rival carrier China Airlines is set to launch its own Taipei–Phoenix route on Dec. 3, ahead of Starlux, with three weekly flights using Airbus A350-900 jets.

Starlux said Phoenix was chosen for its solid tourism base and emerging tech industry, given TSMC’s presence. The new route will support Starlux’s transpacific network and long-haul transfer strategy.

Flights will be operated with Airbus A350 aircraft, three times a week, with plans to expand to four flights weekly by March 2026.

Starlux CEO Chai Chien-hua (翟健華) said the route is Arizona’s first nonstop connection to Asia, adding that Phoenix is the fifth-largest US city, with strong tourism appeal and fast-growing tech momentum. Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego welcomed the route, calling it a milestone for the city’s international profile and a vote of confidence in Sky Harbor International Airport.

Starlux currently flies 10 times weekly to Los Angeles, daily to San Francisco and Seattle, and four times a week to Ontario, California. With Phoenix added to its map, the airline said travelers will enjoy greater flexibility and seamless transfers across North America.