Phoenix touts new international service with Starlux and highlights airport growth
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Summary
Mayor Kate Gallego announced that Taiwan's Starlux Airlines intends to launch nonstop service between Sky Harbor and Taipei beginning next February, and highlighted Sky Harbor's growing route network and role in regional economic development.
Mayor Kate Gallego and airport partners announced plans for new international air service and described Sky Harbor's recent route additions as supporting economic development.
"Pending final gate assignments and starting next February, Taiwan's Starlux Airlines intends to launch a nonstop flight between Sky Harbor and Taipei," Gallego said, crediting Sky Harbor, the city's economic development department, GPEC and U.S. Customs for helping secure the service.
Why it matters: Direct international air service is significant for business travel, cargo (including semiconductor components), and connecting Phoenix to Asian markets. The mayor framed the route as part of the city's efforts to support global business ties tied to the semiconductor cluster and other exporters.
Details: Gallego said the planned flight will operate three times weekly on Starlux's A359 aircraft. She thanked airline executives and local partners for their work arranging customs and airport resources. Earlier in the program, Steve Cisneros, vice president of airport operations for Southwest Airlines, greeted the audience and described Southwest's local workforce and operations; the mayor also noted that Sky Harbor's carriers added new service to 21 destinations over the past year.
Discussion vs. decision: The address reported an airline's intention and credited partners for negotiations; the mayor framed the announcement as pending final gate assignments rather than a concluded municipal contract or vote.
What’s next: The mayor said the city and airport will continue to work with carriers and partners to finalize gate assignments and support international route development.
