China Airlines Expands North American Network with Seattle Route
Taiwan-based China Airlines officially launched its new route to Seattle, USA, marking a significant expansion of its North American network. President Kao Shing-Hwang personally flew aboard the inaugural flight CI022 from Taipei to Seattle to celebrate the occasion. This addition makes Seattle the airline's sixth non-stop destination in North America, joining Los Angeles, Ontario (CA), San Francisco, New York, and Vancouver. Initially, the route will offer five flights a week, with plans to increase to daily flights as new aircraft and capacity become available.
Seattle Airport welcomed flight CI022 with a traditional water salute ceremony. Celebrations also marked the inauguration of the CI021 service from Seattle to Taipei. President Kao highlighted the importance of the Seattle route for China Airlines' North American expansion, emphasizing its strategic position as the closest U.S. city for flights from Asia. With connecting flights available to over 50 major inland U.S. cities, more than 80% of these connections offer same-day transfers, benefiting business travel and tourism between the U.S. and Taiwan.
China Airlines has a long history in the North American market, having operated there for over fifty years. The new non-stop flights to Seattle will enhance the airline's passenger network in the U.S. Northwest, providing more travel options between Taiwan and the Americas. Currently, China Airlines offers over 40 return flights to the U.S. and Canada each week. Additionally, the airline aims to capture a larger share of the transfer market in Asia, leveraging its extensive regional network with nearly 400 weekly flights for travelers between North America and Southeast Asia, as well as those transferring in Northeast Asia.
The addition of the Seattle route also aligns with the growing demand for sustainable travel options. China Airlines is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and has implemented various eco-friendly initiatives, including the use of biofuels and advanced aircraft technology designed to lower emissions. The A350-900 aircraft used for the Seattle route is one of the most fuel-efficient models in the industry, highlighting the airline's dedication to environmental sustainability.
The Taipei-Seattle route utilizes the next-generation A350-900 passenger aircraft, which had a nearly full return flight on July 14, boasting a 95% load factor. Travelers were treated to gourmet cuisine from Michelin 3-star restaurant Les Palais and champion bread rolls by Chen Yao-Hsun. The menu included luxurious dishes such as Lo Mein with Abalone, Braised Portuguese Chicken Rice, and Seattle's famous Seafood Chowder. Dessert options featured chocolates from Seattle-based Fran’s and Jcoco.
China Airlines continues to prioritize quality service, partnering with Moroccanoil to provide premium amenities such as hand wash, moisturizer, and fragrant sprays. From July onwards, these products will be available on all routes. Premium Business Class passengers on long-haul flights will receive travel kits from luxury brand MOSCHINO, while Premium Economy passengers will enjoy outdoor-style kits from Roots. The upgraded over-the-ear headphones in Premium Business Class feature advanced noise-cancellation technology, enhancing the overall flying experience.