Flight Buzz
Taiwan STARLUX Airlines Rolls Out Direct Phoenix-Taipei Flights, Marking a New Era in Transpacific Travel

Wednesday, July 30, 2025
Taiwan’s STARLUX Airlines is set to revolutionize transpacific travel with the introduction of direct nonstop flights between Phoenix, Arizona, and Taipei, Taiwan, starting January 15, 2026. This new route marks a significant milestone in air travel by providing Phoenix with its first-ever direct connection to Asia, addressing the growing demand for both business and leisure travel. With the recent surge in Phoenix’s tech sector, particularly following major investments like TSMC’s semiconductor plant, the route will not only strengthen business ties between Arizona and Taiwan but also enhance tourism and cultural exchanges. By offering a seamless, luxury flying experience, STARLUX Airlines is poised to establish a new era of direct, efficient, and comfortable travel between the U.S. Southwest and Asia.
STARLUX Airlines, Based in Taiwan, is to unveil nonstop flights between Phoenix in Arizona and Taipei in Taiwan as of Jan. 15, 2026. This new service represents the first-ever nonstop flight on record connecting Phoenix to Asia, creating a critical new transpacific connection. The carrier has already begun taking reservations for this eagerly anticipated new route, which has been developed to deliver growing demand for travel stimulated by both expanding business in Phoenix and an increase in tourism from Asia.
Expanding Global Connections
This new nonstop Phoenix-Taipei service underscores STARLUX Airlines’ ambition to expand its reach in North America. The decision to establish this new route comes as Phoenix, the fifth-largest city in the U.S., becomes a prominent hub for innovation and commerce. In particular, the city’s technology sector has flourished, aided by significant investments such as those from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC). This expansion has made it clear that there is a strong need for direct international connections, and STARLUX Airlines is poised to cater to that demand by offering seamless, nonstop service between these two dynamic regions.
Phoenix’s growing appeal, both as a destination for tourists and a key player in the tech industry, made this new route an obvious choice. The new nonstop service not only improves connectivity but also provides a direct, efficient travel option for both business professionals and leisure travelers who wish to explore the American Southwest or conduct international business between Taiwan and Arizona.
Comfort and Convenience with the Airbus A350
STARLUX Airlines will operate the new route using the advanced Airbus A350 aircraft, which is renowned for its superior comfort, innovative features, and fuel efficiency. Initially, the service will offer three weekly flights on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday. Starting in March 2026, the airline will increase the frequency of flights to four per week by adding Saturday service. This ensures greater flexibility for passengers seeking to travel between Phoenix and Taipei.
The flight timetable for the new route is as follows:
Flight JX025: Phoenix to Taipei
Operating Days: Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday (from March 2026: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday)
Departure Time: 22:45
Arrival Time: 04:55+2
Flight JX026: Taipei to Phoenix
Operational Days: Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday (From March 2026: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday)
Departure Time: 20:45
Arrival Time: 17:40
For travelers in the Southwest U.S., this new nonstop service eliminates the need for lengthy layovers in major cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco, offering a more efficient and comfortable travel experience. Whether passengers are flying for work, leisure, or family visits, STARLUX Airlines is committed to providing a luxurious and seamless journey with its high-quality service and world-class amenities.
Phoenix: A Hub for Business, Technology, and Tourism
Phoenix, located in the heart of the American Southwest, continues to grow as a significant center for both business and tourism. With its striking desert landscapes, year-round warm weather, and close proximity to iconic attractions such as the Grand Canyon and Antelope Canyon, Phoenix is a sought-after destination for travelers. The city is also becoming increasingly recognized for its growing tech sector, with TSMC’s investment in the region bringing a wave of technological innovation and fostering business opportunities.
This new nonstop route from Phoenix to Taipei will cater to professionals traveling between two of the world’s most important technology hubs, making it easier for businesses to engage in cross-Pacific ventures. For leisure travelers, Phoenix’s natural beauty and cultural offerings make it a prime gateway to explore the American Southwest, providing a perfect balance of work and play.
STARLUX Airlines Expands in North America
With the introduction of the Phoenix-Taipei route, STARLUX Airlines is significantly expanding its North American presence. Along with the new route, the airline also offers ten weekly connections between Los Angeles and Taipei, daily services to San Francisco and Seattle, and four weekly flights departing from Ontario, California. This expansion is part of STARLUX’s broader strategy to provide passengers with greater convenience and connectivity between the U.S. and Asia.
The airline’s commitment to offering luxury services on its flights sets it apart in the competitive transpacific market. STARLUX’s passengers can look forward to world-class cabin features, including spacious seating, exceptional in-flight dining, and an overall premium flying experience. As the airline grows its North American network, more travelers will have direct access to Taipei and beyond, further strengthening connections between key cities in the U.S. and Asia.
Taiwan’s STARLUX Airlines is launching direct nonstop flights from Phoenix to Taipei starting January 15, 2026, marking the city’s first-ever connection to Asia and catering to growing business and leisure travel demand. This new route strengthens transpacific links and opens new opportunities for both regions.
Bookings Now Available
STARLUX Airlines has officially opened bookings for the new Phoenix-Taipei route, offering passengers the chance to experience a new level of convenience and luxury on their journey between the American Southwest and Taiwan. Whether traveling for business, leisure, or family visits, the nonstop service will provide passengers with an efficient, comfortable, and luxurious flying experience.
As STARLUX grows its North American network, passengers will enjoy more opportunities for direct flights, further simplifying the travel experience between Asia and the U.S. Whether you are enjoying a tour in fascinating Taipei or exploring the beauty of the American Southwest, STARLUX Airlines will ensure the highest level of comfort throughout your journey.
Flight Buzz
Flynas Joins Azerbaijan Airways, Air Arabia and Etihad, Boosts Travel with Its Direct Flights from Riyadh to Moscow: Here’s What You Need To Know

Sunday, August 3, 2025
Flynas has just launched direct flights from Riyadh to Moscow, and this is big news for tourism in Saudi Arabia. Starting August 1, 2025, these three weekly flights are a game-changer, making Riyadh more accessible to Russian tourists. Not only does this make it easier for travelers to visit the Kingdom, but it also strengthens the city’s status as a tourist destination.
This new service will allow visitors from Russia to experience Riyadh’s rich history, modern attractions, and cultural sites without the hassle of connecting flights. It’s an exciting time for tourism in Riyadh, and this move opens up new doors for travelers.
Supporting Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Goals
This isn’t just about a flight route – it’s part of a larger strategy to boost Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector. The Kingdom has set an ambitious goal to attract 150 million tourists annually by 2030, and this new route is helping to make that vision a reality. By connecting Riyadh directly with Moscow, Flynas is making it easier for tourists to visit and for Saudi Arabia to meet its tourism targets.
The new flights also fit perfectly into the Kingdom’s National Tourism Strategy, which focuses on enhancing Saudi Arabia’s global connectivity. This makes Riyadh more accessible, inviting, and a major player in the global tourism scene.
Riyadh’s Growing Passport Ranking and Global Appeal
Saudi Arabia’s passport has climbed to 54th place in the global passport rankings for 2025, making it easier for Saudi citizens to travel and positioning the Kingdom as an attractive destination for international tourists. This growth in passport ranking reflects Saudi Arabia’s expanding influence and its efforts to increase global tourism.
The rise in passport strength is a sign that Saudi Arabia is becoming more connected with the world, and the new Riyadh to Moscow flight route is a perfect example of how the country is enhancing its appeal for both leisure and business travel.
Boosting Cultural and Business Tourism
Beyond leisure tourism, the new Riyadh to Moscow flight is expected to boost business tourism as well. Saudi Arabia and Russia share strong business ties, and direct flights make it easier for Russian professionals to visit Riyadh for meetings, conferences, and trade events. This strengthens the bond between the two nations and opens doors for more investment and collaboration.
Culturally, Saudi Arabia has a wealth of experiences to offer. Riyadh is home to stunning historical landmarks like Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and modern attractions that showcase the Kingdom’s growth. Russian tourists, in particular, are keen to explore Saudi Arabia’s rich culture, and now, it’s more convenient for them than ever.
Flynas: Making Riyadh More Accessible
Flynas has been at the forefront of expanding Saudi Arabia’s air connectivity. With a focus on affordable, high-quality travel, Flynas is making it possible for more people to visit Riyadh. The airline’s low-cost model ensures that flights remain affordable, attracting budget-conscious travelers who might not have considered visiting Riyadh otherwise.
Flynas’ new direct route to Moscow is part of its growing network, which connects Riyadh to a variety of international destinations. This helps put Riyadh on the map as a city that’s not just a national capital, but a global tourism hub.
The Future of Tourism in Riyadh
Looking ahead, the future of tourism in Riyadh looks bright. As Saudi Arabia continues to grow as a tourism destination, more international routes and collaborations are expected. The Riyadh to Moscow flight is just the beginning. As the Kingdom invests in infrastructure and promotes tourism, Riyadh will continue to attract more global visitors.
This is a pivotal time for Riyadh. With Vision 2030 guiding the way, the Kingdom is positioning itself to be a top tourist destination. And with airlines like Flynas expanding connectivity, Riyadh’s tourism sector is set to thrive in the years to come.
Flight Buzz
Tuticorin Airport’s New Terminal Officially Operational; All IndiGo Flights Now Operate From The Upgraded Facility

Great news for air travellers in South Tamil Nadu! IndiGo, India’s leading airline, has officially moved all its flight operations in and out of Tuticorin Airport to the brand-new terminal building, starting today. Say goodbye to the old terminal and get ready for a refreshed airport experience the next time you fly!
IndiGo Shifts To New Terminal At Tuticorin Airport
From August 3 onwards, every IndiGo flight, whether you’re arriving in Tuticorin or flying out, will use the new terminal building. The older terminal is no longer in use, so make sure you head to the right location to avoid any last-minute confusion. Tuticorin Airport also shared a warm welcome to passengers on X (formerly Twitter). The new terminal is expected to offer more space, better facilities, and a smoother travel experience.
Dear passengers ,
Welcome to our NEW Terminal Building!!!
We are pleased to inform you that our flight operations will be shifting to the new terminal building starting tomorrow onwards i. e. 03.08.2025 (1/2)@AAI_Official @AAIRHQSR @MoCA_GoI @IndiGo6E @flyspicejet
— TUTICORIN AIRPORT (@aaitutairport) August 2, 2025
IndiGo also took to X and posted a travel advisory, asking passengers to update their contact details in their booking. The travellers are advised to ensure they receive all important updates, including flight delays, gate changes, or boarding announcements, right on their phone or email.
Here’s what the airline said: “Effective August 3, all IndiGo flights to/from Tuticorin (TCR) will operate from the New Terminal Building, offering a refreshed and enhanced airport experience. Please update your contact details and monitor your flight status for a smooth journey.”
Also Read: Nagpur Airport Loses Fourth Route In Months As Star Air Pulls Kolhapur Flight
IndiGo’s Strong Performance Despite Challenges
This upgrade comes at a time when IndiGo is doing quite well financially, even with tough global conditions affecting the airline industry. InterGlobe Aviation, the parent company of IndiGo, reported a net profit of ₹2,176 crore for the first quarter of the fiscal year 2025–2026, just one day prior to this terminal shift, according to News18.
Between April and June 2025, IndiGo carried over 3.1 crore passengers, a 12% increase compared to last year. It maintained a strong 84.6% load factor, even with a slight dip, and reported revenues of ₹20,496 crore
If you’re planning to fly from Tuticorin anytime soon, whether it’s a business trip, a holiday, or a visit home, head to the new terminal at the airport. All IndiGo flights are now operating from this new space, designed to make your journey more comfortable and efficient.
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons/Prime Minister’s Office
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First Published: August 03, 2025 1:15 PM
Flight Buzz
Emirates Joins Cathay Pacific and Air China Expands its Reach in China with New Daily Flights to Hangzhou: Here’s What You Should Know

Sunday, August 3, 2025
Emirates is now flying to Hangzhou, making it our fifth entry point in China and expanding even further our East Asian network. This new link to Hangzhou is testament to the strength of Emirates in China and offers further growth opportunities for us in our Far East operations.’ The first flight, EK310 was welcomed by local officials and dignitaries as well children from the Airport at Hangzhou Xiaoshan International on 30th July 2025.
This launch follows a significant expansion for Emirates, as the airline recently began services to Shenzhen, making Hangzhou the second new destination in just one month. Emirates’ commitment to increasing its presence in China underscores the airline’s strong confidence in the growing demand for both leisure and business travel between China and the Middle East.
New Route to Hangzhou Offers Convenient Flight Options
The convenient link up is offered by the new daily Emirates service between Dubai and Hangzhou. EK310 is timed to leave Dubai at 09:40 and land in Hangzhou at 22:00. The return flight, EK311 will depart Hangzhou at 00:10hrs arriving in Dubai at 04:55 hrs. The schedule is designed to meet the needs of passengers and enables seamless travel options for guests, connecting through key destinations in Europe.
The announcement was made during a ceremony held on Monday at the US cities both in presence of HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and chief executive of Emirates Airline & Group. Emirates will operate its Boeing 777-300ER aircraft between Dubai and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. The flight will reciprocally showcase regionally inspired menus with the choice of popular Chinese dishes and desserts, adding to its overall appeal.
Connecting Global Passengers to Hangzhou
Emirates’ new flight to Hangzhou opens up a range of travel options for passengers from across the globe. The airline’s extensive network enables seamless connections via Dubai to over 40 destinations in Europe, 21 in Africa, 13 in the Middle East, and beyond. Passengers from key markets such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Italy, Spain, Nigeria, and Brazil will benefit from this enhanced connectivity to Hangzhou, which is quickly becoming an important hub for business and leisure travel in China.
The route will also offer passengers the opportunity to connect with other major cities in the region. Convenient connections to destinations like Istanbul, Barcelona, Cairo, and Johannesburg are available via Dubai, making it easier than ever for travelers to explore various global destinations. Emirates’ network is designed to meet the demands of business and leisure travelers, providing an optimal travel experience for everyone.
Enhanced Passenger Experience in Hangzhou
Emirates is bringing its world-class services to Hangzhou, enhancing the travel experience for all passengers flying to and from this dynamic tech hub. In addition to its high-quality in-flight services, Emirates offers a complimentary chauffeur-drive service for First and Business Class passengers in Hangzhou. This service is available within an 80-kilometer radius of Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport, providing a seamless, luxurious journey to and from the airport.
The airline’s commitment to providing exceptional service extends to Hangzhou, with a focus on passenger comfort and convenience. The introduction of this new service further reflects Emirates’ growing commitment to the region and its aim to make travel between the Middle East and China more accessible.
Hangzhou: A Growing Hub for Global Travelers
Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province, is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and rapidly growing technological and e-commerce sectors. The city’s growing prominence as a global business and tourism hub has made it an attractive destination for travelers worldwide.
The launch of Emirates’ daily flights offers global tourists and business travelers better access to Hangzhou, making it easier for them to explore the city’s attractions, including its iconic West Lake, and to tap into the city’s booming digital economy. Hangzhou is also famous for being home to Alibaba, one of the world’s largest e-commerce companies, which has further cemented the city’s status as a global tech powerhouse.
Strengthening Emirates’ Presence in China
Emirates’ expansion into Hangzhou is part of a broader strategy to strengthen its presence in China. The airline already operates flights to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, offering passengers a comprehensive network of options for traveling to and from the Chinese mainland. The addition of Hangzhou brings the total number of weekly Emirates flights to China to 49, further expanding the airline’s reach across the region.
The airline’s ability to offer convenient, daily flights to Hangzhou will help meet the rising demand for travel between China and the Middle East. With an ever-increasing number of passengers seeking to explore China’s growing tourism and business sectors, Emirates is positioned to be a key player in this thriving market.
Commitment to Connecting People and Cultures
Emirates remains committed to fostering greater connections between China and the rest of the world. The launch of this new route, along with the addition of Shenzhen, reflects the airline’s strategic focus on building stronger trade and tourism ties between China, the Middle East, and other key regions.
In addition to its aviation services, Emirates is actively promoting cultural exchanges between China and the UAE, further strengthening the relationship between the two nations. Through initiatives like partnerships with cultural organizations, the airline is helping to promote China as a major destination for global travelers.
Bottom Line
Emirates’ new daily service to Hangzhou is a significant milestone in the airline’s expansion in China. By offering enhanced connectivity to one of China’s most important cities, Emirates is opening new doors for travelers to explore this thriving region. The airline’s focus on passenger comfort, convenience, and seamless connectivity ensures that travelers flying to Hangzhou will experience the best of what Emirates has to offer.
As Emirates continues to expand its network across China, passengers can expect even greater access to the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and beyond. The new flights to Hangzhou are just the beginning of Emirates’ ongoing commitment to meeting the needs of its global customers.
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