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Southwest Airlines and China Airlines Partnership

Southwest Airlines Co. has announced a significant move to establish an interline partnership with Taiwan's China Airlines Group, marking Southwest's first trans-Pacific airline collaboration. This venture promises to provide travelers with seamless connectivity between the United States and Asia, enhancing their overall travel experience. Discussions about this partnership have been underway for several months, culminating in an official announcement made at the International Air Transport Association's (IATA) Annual General Meeting held in New Delhi on June 2, 2025.

A New Era in Travel Choices

Andrew Watterson, Chief Operating Officer at Southwest Airlines, emphasized the airline's commitment to expanding travel choices for its customers. He stated, "This initial work to partner with Taiwan-based China Airlines would allow for seamless trans-Pacific journeys across the Southwest network, furthering the reach of our Vision and Purpose—to connect People with important moments in their lives." With Southwest Airlines recognized as the largest domestic air carrier in the United States, this collaboration aims to enhance the travel options available to passengers flying to and from California and beyond.

Kevin Chen, President of China Airlines, expressed enthusiasm regarding the partnership, noting, "Growing our long-haul network always has been China Airlines' long-term plan. As we expand our gateway operations in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, and Ontario, California, we are pleased to include Southwest as one of our partners with its unique network that further expands North American connection opportunities into the Midwest and toward the East Coast."

Seamless Travel Experiences

One of the standout features of this partnership is the possibility for travelers to book itineraries that include both China Airlines and Southwest Airlines under a single ticket. This initiative will help streamline travel processes and enhance the overall journey for travelers, providing them a well-coordinated experience as they navigate their flights between North America and Asia.

Moreover, Watterson revealed Southwest's strategy in creating partnerships with other carriers. Earlier in 2025, Southwest began a collaboration with Icelandair, allowing passengers to enjoy interconnected travel between the United States and Europe. The addition of connecting services through Orlando, Pittsburgh, and Raleigh-Durham starting July 14, 2025, further enhances access between Europe and various cities within the Southwest network.

About China Airlines

Founded in 1959, China Airlines aims to be the leading airline in the Asia-Pacific region. With a fleet of 111 aircraft and over 10,000 employees, China Airlines places a strong emphasis on delivering safe, high-quality, eco-friendly, and innovative flying experiences to all its passengers.

As a leading air cargo carrier in Taiwan, their cargo services ensure reliable and convenient transportation options, continually being improved to meet varying customer needs.

About Southwest Airlines

Established in 1971, Southwest Airlines operates a robust network across 117 airports in 11 countries, garnering admiration for its commitment to affordable, friendly, and reliable air travel. In 2024, Southwest Airlines boasted carrying more air travelers on nonstop flights within the United States than any other carrier.

With a legacy of promoting accessible air travel, Southwest values its dedicated team of over 71,000 employees who focus on providing unparalleled hospitality to more than 140 million customers yearly. They emphasize their mission to serve communities globally, assuring that they leverage their purpose to enhance social responsibility and community engagement.

Conclusion

This partnership between Southwest Airlines and China Airlines is a significant step toward revitalizing travel options across the Pacific, offering improved connections and better service to travelers navigating between the U.S. and Asia. As excitement builds, customers can anticipate more details regarding ticket availability and travel offerings in the months ahead.