China Airlines launch Taiwan service

China Airlines has launched its first ever passenger service from Taipei to London  – the first time that the UK has been connected by a non-stop service to Taiwan.
Carrying 276 passengers including China Airlines Chairman Philip Wei, President Hung Hsiung Sun and various VIP guests, the A340-300 aircraft arrived at Heathrow to a water cannon salute and official welcome from BAA senior management.
Greeting passengers, VIP guests and media in London Heathrow’s Terminal 4 prior to the return flight from London to Taipei Taoyuan Airport at 21.15, Chairman Philip Wei presided over the official flight inauguration with a ribbon and cake cutting ceremony.
“The latest addition to the China Airlines network highlights our commitment to the UK market, and our ongoing work to strengthen Taiwan’s position as one of Asia and the Pacific’s leading aviation hubs. China Airlines is proud to play a part in promoting further growth by adding the UK as our latest destination”, he told guests.
The thrice-weekly flights departing Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday will be operated with an Airbus A340-300 aircraft, with 30 seats in business class and 246 in economy.
The addition of the London route sees China Airlines serve five European destinations in Europe, with a total of 21 flights per week between Taiwan and Europe.
The non-stop service to Taiwan will also offer new connections for passengers looking to travel to onward destinations including South East Asia, North East Asia, Indonesia, Australia and mainland China.

First non-stop Taiwan link for Heathrow

     Heathrow is to get its first non-stop link to Taiwan with the  launch of a new three-times-weekly service by China Airlines.
     The service from Taoyuan Airport beginning on March 28 will be operated with an Airbus A340-300 aircraft, with 30 seats in business class and 246 in economy. It will use Heathrow’s newly refurbished Terminal 4.
     Departing Taipei on Tuesday and Sunday at 09.25 and arriving London Heathrow at 17.05, the London Heathrow – Taipei flight will depart at 21.15 and arrive at 18.15 the following day. A third weekly Thursday flight will depart Taipei at 09.25 and arrive London Heathrow at 16.55, before returning from London Heathrow at 22.05 arriving Taipei at 19.05 the following day.
     Following the launch of the London route, China Airlines will serve five destinations in Europe, with a total of 21 flights per week between Taiwan and Europe. China Airlines growing European presence, combined with its extensive network, provides passengers with more flexibility in planning business or leisure trips to Taiwan and onward destinations including Bali and Sydney, said a statement.
    Philip Wei, Chairman China Airlines commented “As the leading airline in Taiwan, China Airlines is committed to promoting tourism, culture and the economic development of the island.”
    A statement from the airline said “Taiwan was first known to the West as Ilha Formosa, or ‘Beautiful Island’, and visitors will discover countless arresting landscapes and alluring coastal vistas as well as a rich cultural heritage. As a ‘high-tech island’, with products made in Taiwan available throughout the world, the destination also offers a wealth of futuristic attractions, modern art and world-class cuisine, providing a fascinating and unique visitor experience”
   Return fares start from £370.