Columbia travelers gain the only nonstop service to Newark (EWR) and Orlando (MCO) and new service to Fort Lauderdale (FLL)

DANIA BEACH, Fla., June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Spirit Airlines (NYSE American: FLYY) is soaring to its third destination in South Carolina with today’s launch of affordable, nonstop flights from Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE). The new service begins just in time for summer and includes CAE’s only nonstop flights to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and Orlando International Airport (MCO), along with new, nonstop service to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). Columbia Guests can also take advantage of seamless one-stop connections to Latin America and the Caribbean.

“Spirit’s arrival in Columbia brings South Carolina travelers easy access to some of the top destinations on the East Coast at an unmatched value,” said John Kirby, Vice President of Network Planning at Spirit Airlines. “We can’t wait to welcome our Columbia Guests onboard and make it easier for travelers to visit South Carolina’s capital city.”

“We are thrilled to now be able to offer the local community a cost-effective flying option in Spirit Airlines,” said Kim Crafton, Vice President of Marketing & Air Service Development at Columbia Metropolitan Airport. “Increasing air service to a community can be a long process, as our airport like many others across the nation are competing for the same service. I’m thankful our team was able to secure Spirit Airlines and I’m thankful Spirit Airlines sees a great opportunity for a successful partnership for the airport and the Midlands region.” 

The Spirit Charitable Foundation commemorated the airline’s new service in Columbia with a grant of $10,000 to Palmetto Place Children and Youth Services, a nonprofit that provides a safe and supportive environment for children and teens who have faced abuse, abandonment, neglect or homelessness.

Following Spirit’s recent upgrade of its Free Spirit loyalty program, the airline is celebrating the launch of its Columbia service with a Free Spirit loyalty program promotion* where members can earn 1,500 bonus points on roundtrip flights and 750 bonus points on one-way flights to and from Columbia (CAE). Travel must be booked by June 10, 2025, and flown by July 9, 2025. The Free Spirit loyalty program is free to join and is the fastest way to earn rewards and status.

Spirit first launched its South Carolina service at Myrtle Beach (MYR) more than 25 years ago and began service at Charleston (CHS) in 2023.

United customers can now enjoy a collection of Spotify’s video and audio podcasts, audiobooks, and specially curated versions of Spotify’s most popular playlists – for free – on 680+ aircraft with the airline’s new 4K, Bluetooth-enabled seatback screens

Spotify’s audiobooks and video podcasts are available for the first time onboard an airline, featuring popular titles like Good Hang with Amy Poehler, The Dave Chang Show, and The Comment Section with Drew Afualo

Coming in 2026, United passengers will be able to use their personal device to log into the Spotify app on the inflight entertainment screen

CHICAGO and NEW YORK, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — United and Spotify today announced a first-of-its-kind collaboration that delivers an even more entertaining travel experience in the sky, with 450+ hours of content now available for free on the airline’s 130,000+ seatback screens, many of which offer stunning 4K quality and Bluetooth audio compatibility.

This is the first time Spotify has offered audiobooks and video podcasts onboard an airline, allowing United flyers to enjoy more than 65+ pieces of content, including popular titles like Good Hang with Amy Poehler, The Dave Chang Show, and The Comment Section with Drew Afualo.

In addition, next year, United passengers will be able to use their personal devices to log into the Spotify app on the inflight entertainment screen. This will allow passengers to enjoy their favorite personalized content on the seatback so they can pick-up their favorite podcasts, music, and audiobooks from right where they left off.

“Spotify has a huge audience and people love their content. And now our customers can enjoy it all in a simple and easy way, at 35,000 feet,” said Richard Nunn, CEO of MileagePlus. “Together, we’re giving millions of customers an entirely new way to experience and explore premium content from the world’s most popular artists, authors and podcasters –all while flying with the latest technology in the sky.”

“As a frequent United flyer myself, it’s incredibly exciting to see Spotify now available on the world’s largest airline,” said Ian Geller, VP of Business Development at Spotify. “At Spotify, we’re dedicated to being everywhere our users are, giving creators opportunities to reach new platforms and engage different audiences. I’m especially looking forward to bringing an even more personalized app streaming experience to seatbacks next year.”

Onboard Experience

Spotify content will be available on more than 680 United aircraft and appear as a new content category – “Spotify.” This replaces “audio” under the home menu and includes ‘Podcast’, ‘Video Podcasts’, ‘Audiobooks’, and ‘Playlists’ channels. Additionally, in the coming months, a majority of aircraft will receive a dedicated ‘Spotify’ featured channel where all Spotify content will be housed together for quick and easy enjoyment.

On Starlink-equipped aircraft, travelers can stream Spotify content on their personal devices from gate-to-gate without interruption. All they will need to do is log in to their MileagePlus® account and accept the terms and conditions for using Starlink. From there, travelers can open their Spotify app and stream content, just like they do at home.

Collaboration Beyond the Skies

To celebrate the launch, MileagePlus members who are new to Premium Individual can sign up for a subscription and earn up to 1,000 bonus miles. Spotify is also partnering with Kinective Media^SM by United Airlines – the airline industry’s first traveler media network – to share the offer with United customers throughout their travel journey. Travelers may see prompts to sign up for Spotify Premium and earn miles based on their MileagePlus status. These messages will be served across United’s owned and operated media channels, including inflight entertainment screens, the United app, United Club screens, email and more. 

Seamless connectivity expands global network, linking Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe

NEW DELHI, India–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Taiwan-based luxury carrier STARLUX Airlines today announced a strategic codeshare agreement with Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways, enhancing connectivity for the passengers of both airlines across their respective networks. The agreement, formalized at the 81st International Air Transport Association (IATA) Annual General Meeting in New Delhi, marks a major step in STARLUX’s international expansion strategy and provides travelers with improved access to Europe via the Middle East.

Under this partnership, STARLUX passengers will soon be able to book codeshare flights with Etihad Airways, via STARLUX’s official website and sales channels, enabling seamless connections from Taipei to Europe through Abu Dhabi. Travelers can also book itineraries departing from any STARLUX origin point, connecting to Etihad-operated codeshare flights to Abu Dhabi, with onward service to European destinations such as Prague, Madrid, and Barcelona. At the same time, Etihad passengers will enjoy streamlined access to STARLUX’s Asia-Pacific network with, smooth connections via Taipei to key cities in Japan—including Nagoya, Sapporo, and Fukuoka—further expanding access to STARLUX’s diverse Asia-Pacific network.

The codeshare arrangement simplifies travel by allowing guests to make a single booking with one check-in process at the departure airport, along with the added convenience of automatic baggage transfer to their final destination. Both airlines will carry out joint sales and marketing initiatives in Taiwan, and plan to launch a reciprocal frequent flyer program partnership by the end of the year.

“Our partnership with Etihad Airways marks a significant milestone in STARLUX Airlines’ global expansion, laying the foundation for future European routes,” said Simon Liu, Chief Strategy Officer of STARLUX Airlines. “As one of the Middle East’s leading carriers, Etihad is globally recognized for its innovation and premium service—values that strongly align with the STARLUX brand. By leveraging Abu Dhabi’s role as a major hub, this codeshare allows us to rapidly extend our network into Europe, offering passengers a wider range of travel options. We also look forward to deepening collaboration on mileage accrual and premium services to ensure an exceptional experience for customers.”

Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways, said: “This partnership with STARLUX Airlines opens new market opportunities in Northeast Asia, giving our customers access to Japan’s key business and leisure destinations through Taipei. STARLUX Airlines’ reputation for premium service aligns perfectly with our standards, and together we’re offering travellers more choice and convenience when connecting across three continents.”

STARLUX Airlines currently operates 32 routes across 27 destinations, featuring a robust Asian network while steadily expanding its footprint in North America with service to Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle. On June 2, the airline launched its newest route to Ontario, California, with four weekly flights, further strengthening its presence on the U.S. West Coast. In February 2026, STARLUX is scheduled to launch its fifth U.S. destination—Phoenix—further enhancing its transpacific network. The newly signed codeshare partnership with Etihad Airways marks another key milestone in STARLUX’s international growth, enhancing global connectivity and delivering a seamless and elevated travel experience for passengers worldwide.

The Scenic City gains the only nonstop flights to Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Newark (EWR) and Orlando (MCO)

DANIA BEACH, Fla., June 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Chattanooga is now more scenic than ever with new views of Spirit Airlines’ (NYSE American: FLYY) bright yellow planes landing at Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA) starting today. The carrier’s inaugural service provides Chattanooga Guests with nonstop, affordable flights to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and Orlando International Airport (MCO) and offers travelers easy one-stop connections to Latin America and the Caribbean.

“Our CHA service creates new opportunities for Chattanoogans to discover exciting destinations and make new memories at an unparalleled value,” said Duncan Dee, Senior Vice President of Corporate Communications at Spirit Airlines. “We’re proud to add Chattanooga to our route map and help more Guests experience the natural beauty and many activities the Scenic City has to offer.”

“Partnering with Spirit Airlines marks a significant step forward in expanding travel options for our region,” said April Cameron, President and CEO of Chattanooga Airport. “These new nonstop routes open the door to high-value connections for our passengers and strengthen Chattanooga’s role as a gateway to and from the Southeast. We appreciate Spirit’s investment in our community and look forward to welcoming travelers from across these key destinations to the Scenic City.”

Free Spirit^® Bonus Points Promotion
Following Spirit’s recent upgrade of its Free Spirit loyalty program, the airline is celebrating the launch of its Chattanooga service with a Free Spirit loyalty program promotion* where members can earn 1,500 bonus points on roundtrip flights and 750 bonus points on one-way flights to and from Chattanooga (CHA). Travel must be booked by June 10, 2025, and flown by July 9, 2025. The Free Spirit loyalty program is free to join and is the fastest way to earn rewards and status.

Spirit’s Guest Experience Enhancements 
Chattanooga Guests can look forward to a more comfortable and seamless travel experience with Spirit. The airline’s transformation introduced four travel options, ranging from premium to economical, that bring more choice and value to Guests.

• Go Big to get enhanced comfort with a Big Front Seat^®, a carry-on and first checked bag, no change or cancel fees, Priority Check-In and Boarding, reserved overhead bin space, complimentary snacks and drinks, including alcoholic beverages and streaming access to fast Wi-Fi.
• Go Comfy and stretch out with more space, a carry-on bag, no change or cancel fees, Priority Boarding, reserved overhead bin space, a small snack and non-alcoholic drink.
• Go Savvy to get a standard seat selection, carry-on bag and no change or cancel fees.
• Go to keep it simple with no extras. Standard seat selection, checked bags and other options can be purchased separately.

Qatar Airways Group has agreed a new loan facility of QAR 4.5bn with local Qatari banks

This innovative transaction underscores the commitment of Qatar Airways to Qatar National Vision 2030

DOHA, Qatar, June 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — For the first time in 28 years, Qatar Airways signs a landmark agreement with leading local Qatari Banks led by QNB to provide QAR 4.5 billion in strategic financing.

The financing will be provided by domestic banks in Qatar. The syndication was fully underwritten and led by QNB Group as the sole and exclusive Book Runner, Global Coordinator, Initial Mandated Lead Arranger and Structuring Bank, while the lending banks include Ahlibank, Commercial Bank, Doha Bank, Dukhan Bank, QIB, and QIIB.

This new agreement will see an innovative approach taken whereby local banks lend in Qatari Riyals in both conventional and Islamic tranches and commercial terms in line with international benchmarks for a strategic financing transaction of this nature.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “Qatar Airways’ latest purpose-driven partnership demonstrates our trust in the operational excellence of the Qatari banking sector. We are honoured to collaborate with the leading banks of Qatar as we continue to further our commitment to fulfilling the Qatar National Vision 2030. We thank the financial institutions that have played a vital role in shaping our journey, offering support that has helped us reach new millstones. We believe such strong and resilient partnerships remain essential for driving industry innovation and expanding global connectivity.” 

QNB Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Abdulla Mubarak Al-Khalifa, said: “We are pleased to have been selected by Qatar Airways for this prominent role. This appointment underscores QNB’s expertise in structuring complex financing solutions and its commitment to supporting the growth objectives of our clients and supporting Qatar National Vision 2030.”

As Qatar Airways continues its ambitious fleet and network growth strategy, it remains firmly committed to supporting local institutions, enhancing economic development, and contributing to national prosperity. With this agreement, the national carrier also aims to stimulate greater collaboration between the aviation and the banking sector, paving the way for innovative financial structures tailored to the airline’s evolving needs while promoting national economic resilience.

Paisly, LLC, sets out to expand from in-house travel platform to full-service partner powering airline brands and beyond

DANIA BEACH, Fla.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– JetBlue (Nasdaq: JBLU) today announced the official launch of Paisly, LLC, formerly JetBlue Travel Products. The renaming marks a strategic milestone in JetBlue’s broader JetForward strategy, as Paisly evolves from an internal travel platform into a full-service, tech-enabled managed travel services company. With a mission to deliver personalized, human-first experiences, Paisly will now serve not only JetBlue customers but also those of other airlines, starting with a new collaboration with United Airlines, and is positioned to support a growing range of partners across the broader travel landscape.

The newly expanded relationship with United is a key proof point in Paisly’s growth. As part of the Blue Sky collaboration between JetBlue and United, Paisly will assume operation of United Airlines’ direct-to-consumer non-air travel products, including packages, hotels, rental cars, cruises, activities, and insurance – services previously outsourced to third-party providers. These offerings will now be managed through a United dedicated in-house team and powered by Paisly’s proprietary platform, bringing JetBlue’s white-glove model to a broader customer base.

This milestone also marks a significant moment in JetBlue’s evolution: JetBlue Travel Products is now Paisly, LLC, reflecting the company’s transition from a single-brand travel platform to a full-service, tech-enabled managed travel services provider. Paisly currently powers JetBlue’s broader portfolio of non-air ancillary offerings and is preparing to onboard and support United’s ancillary travel products under the new collaboration. The company remains committed to delivering personalized, human-first experiences across every step of the travel journey.

“This is more than a name change, it’s a statement of who we’ve become,” said Jamie Perry, President, Paisly. “What started as a vacation packaging arm for JetBlue has grown into a high-growth tech enabled travel services provider purpose-built with the airline industry in mind. We’re not just a tech stack. We’re a full service partner that combines smart personalization with human support. Customers don’t want to have to manage reservations and chase confirmations. Paisly takes care of all that for them and more. Partnering with United is a strong validation of the model we’ve built.”

A Human-First, Tech-Enabled Travel Experience

Paisly, a wholly-owned subsidiary of JetBlue Airways Corporation, manages all travel services in-house – from hotel contracting and marketing to customer care. The platform’s standout differentiator is its 24/7 Helpful Humans team, delivering proactive, high-touch support throughout the customer journey.

Built to serve the needs of the airline industry, Paisly’s platform delivers personalized offers based on real-time behavior and context, seamlessly integrating with loyalty programs to support both earning and redemption. Whether travelers are booking hotels, rental cars, activities, or travel bags, they can expect a consistent, high-quality experience anchored in three core pillars: great products powered by innovative tech and personalized recommendations, exceptional customer service, and unbeatable value through deep loyalty program integration. These pillars set Paisly apart and continue to guide its growth across current airline partnerships and future business partners.

The first intermodal agreement for JetBlue, Brightline’s high-speed rail service will enhance connectivity and convenience for customers traveling on combined itineraries through Central and South Florida

NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)– JetBlue (NASDAQ: JBLU) and Brightline, America’s first and only privately owned, operated, and maintained passenger rail system, today announced a new partnership that offers customers a seamless air-and-rail booking experience for travel across Central and South Florida. For the first time, JetBlue customers can book Brightline tickets directly on jetblue.com as part of a combined itinerary providing even more options to get to and from cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and Orlando.

“As we continue to grow in Florida and offer more flights to and from cities like Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and Orlando, our partnership with Brightline helps us deliver even more value and convenience to our customers,” said Dave Jehn, vice president, network planning and airline partnerships, JetBlue. “JetBlue and Brightline share a commitment to innovation and great service, and together we’re expanding transportation options for all of our customers to get to where they want to go, whether they’re starting their journey, heading to their final destination, or adjusting plans along the way.”

Brightline provides easy connections between JetBlue flights and stations in Miami, Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, and Orlando. The Orlando station, located at Orlando International Airport, allows for effortless transfers between air and rail. In South Florida, Brightline offers shuttle service between airports and nearby stations, included in the JetBlue air-and-rail booking for added convenience. When booking JetBlue’s Mint^® or core experience,customers can be matched with Brightline’s available Premium or Smart fare classes, respectively.

“We are proud to partner with JetBlue to enhance connectivity throughout Florida,” said Barbara Drahl, senior vice president of marketing and commercial strategy at Brightline. “This partnership enables travelers to book a single ticket for both air and rail, offering a fast, reliable, and eco-friendly rail transportation option while seamlessly connecting to JetBlue’s extensive network.”

JetBlue customers with air-and-rail itineraries can take advantage of Brightline’s comfortable and reliable train service, which includes high-speed connectivity, spacious seating, a premium onboard experience, and direct access to beloved destinations across Central and South Florida.

In addition to expanding travel options for new bookings, this agreement also enables JetBlue to offer alternative itineraries that incorporate Brightline rail segments during periods of irregular Florida operations, providing more flexibility for customers and enhancing recovery options when travel doesn’t go as planned.

FORT WORTH, Texas — Designer Brandon Blackwood has dressed Hollywood’s hottest stars, racked up industry awards for his handbag and footwear designs, gone viral across social media platforms — and now he’s soaring to new heights with the launch of amenity kits created exclusively for American Airlines customers. The ultimate ready-to-wear accessory, Blackwood’s amenity kits will be available on select American flights beginning later this month.

Through early September, premium cabin customers on American international and select transcontinental flights will be greeted by a complimentary Blackwood-designed amenity kit at their seat:

• Flagship^® First and Flagship Suite^® Preferred seats: A compact travel version of Blackwood’s trademark Portmore handbag, featuring the same structured design in denim and wraparound zip closure
• Flagship^® Business and Flagship Suite^® seats: A travel pouch with flair, the black kit features red accents along the zip closure and Blackwood’s recognizable checkered pattern on the interior
• Premium Economy: Featuring Blackwood’s checkered pattern on the exterior in blue and white, this kit is a statement piece for all

“When this opportunity with American Airlines first arose, I knew I wanted to create designs that were familiar to my brand and could be repurposed as soon as the plane lands,” said Blackwood. “I traveled a lot growing up and used a lot of that inspiration in my designs, so it feels like a full-circle moment seeing my bags in flight and bringing innovation and creativity together.”

The Brandon Blackwood amenity kits are the latest to join American’s line of limited-edition kits. The most recent limited-edition kit featured a Raven & Lily red, white and black amenity kit in partnership with Stand Up To Cancer, helping American and its customers raise more than $4.3 million for the organization.

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Premium Economy amenity kit

“Brandon’s bold, fashion-forward designs are the perfect addition to our amenity kit collection, especially as we see our premium customers skewing younger, which is in line with Gen Z investing in luxury items and experiences,” said Heather Garboden, American’s Chief Customer Officer. “From the designers we partner with to the brands we feature on board, American is committed to giving travelers something new to discover and explore well before they get to their destination.”

Customers on European getaways, like Chicago to Naples, Italy; Charlotte, North Carolina, to Athens, Greece; and Philadelphia to Edinburgh, Scotland, can get their own kits when flying in premium cabins. Not crossing the pond this year? Customers on Flagship^® transcontinental and Hawaii flights can also score an amenity kit when traveling in premium cabins. American offers Flagship^® service to a variety of international destinations:

Front row vibes with the AAdvantage program

Whether customers have a newfound enthusiasm for the world of loyalty or they’re seasoned pros, the AAdvantage^® program makes it easy to enhance any travel journey. Joining the AAdvantage^® program is free, and members enjoy benefits right away.

Customers can treat themselves by buying up into the next cabin or using miles to help unlock access to these enhanced premium experiences, including lounge access and premium cabins featuring the new inflight amenities. Status members may also receive complimentary upgrades, further enhancing their premium travel experience.

• Rome remains one of the most-requested destinations for Mileage Plan members and it’s the largest European destination not currently served nonstop from Seattle
• Flights will begin in May 2026 and can be purchased at alaskaair.com starting in fall 2025

SEATTLE – Alaska Airlines is continuing the celebration of our new global gateway in Seattle by adding Rome, Italy, to our international destination lineup. This is the first time in history that the “Emerald City” will be connected to the “Eternal City” via a nonstop flight. Flights to Rome will be available at alaskaair.com and hawaiianairlines.com when fares go on sale this fall, so start planning your Italian vacation now.

“Serving Rome nonstop from Seattle is a dream come true. As an Italian American whose parents emigrated from Italy, this is a particularly meaningful addition to our network. Rome has been at the top of the list ever since we announced our new global gateway out of Seattle. Our guests have been asking for an easy way to get to Italy for years, and we’re thrilled to provide it to people in the Northwest and beyond. Andiamo – let’s go!”
– Ben Minicucci
Alaska Airlines CEO

Rome is the most popular European destination not currently served nonstop from Seattle. It is consistently among the most-requested destinations for Mileage Plan members. This new nonstop option for Seattle guests will also provide improved one-stop connectivity for guests all along the West Coast and Hawaiʻi.

With the expected single operating certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) this fall, the new route will be served on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner operated by Alaska Airlines, featuring a new global experience.

Guests interested in the new route can join an early-access list to be notified when flights can be purchased this fall. Register your amore at alaskaair.com/rome to be the first to know more.

As we advance “Alaska Accelerate,” our three-year strategic plan to deliver $1 billion in incremental profit following the combination with Hawaiian Airlines, we’re transforming Seattle into the West Coast’s new premier global gateway. Rome will become the third widebody, international route served out of Alaska’s global gateway in Seattle after Tokyo Narita, which launched on May 12, and Seoul Incheon, which begins service on Sept. 12. Our hub at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is already the largest airline hub on the West Coast, serving 104 nonstop destinations across North America, and now the world.

Exploring the ‘Eternal City’ and beyond
Centrally located in Italy, Rome is positioned as a leading gateway for Central and Southern Europe, as well as the entire Mediterranean region. Leonardo da Vinci Fiumicino International Airport (FCO) offers convenient accessibility to the main Italian cities such as Milan, Venice, Florence, Naples, Catania, Palermo and more. Rome Civitavecchia is also the second-largest cruise port in Europe – offering a gateway to the Mediterranean. FCO also provides more than 230 nonstop destinations across 80 countries.

If you want to stay local, the “Eternal City” has millennia of history to immerse yourself in. From the Colosseum to St. Peter’s Square and every trattoria serving carbonara in between, there is something for every traveler. Rome has recently completed a citywide renovation in anticipation of 2025’s Jubilee Year – a holy year in the Catholic Church. Many tourist attractions and historical sites have been refreshed and are ready to welcome visitors. Jubilee pilgrims will have good company among the millions of visitors expected to visit Rome this year.

A premium airport experience
Many of those millions of tourists will transit through FCO, which offers a premium experience that stands out from other major airports in Europe. The airport is undergoing a significant expansion and modernization effort, fueled by an investment of 9 billion euros. As one of only a dozen SkyTrax 5-Star hub airports worldwide, FCO keeps investing and innovating to ensure a continuous improvement of the services offered to its customers. The airport’s industry-leading guest experience begins as you arrive: upon landing in Rome, U.S. and Canadian nationals are eligible for electronic passport controls through the e-gates, allowing an expedited arrival process – putting that Aperol spritz or scoop of gelato in your hand that much sooner.

“We are immensely proud that Alaska Airlines has chosen Rome as its first destination in Europe. This decision confirms the strategic relevance of our airport as a global hub for air connectivity. For the first time in history, Italy will be directly connected to Seattle, further strengthening ties with the U.S. West Coast and the broader Pacific region. Today, Fiumicino ranks among the leading European airports in terms of direct flights to North America, consolidating its key role in intercontinental traffic flows.”

– Ivan Bassato
Chief Aviation Officer at Aeroporti di Roma
For guests traveling from Italy, Alaska Air Group’s Seattle hub will serve as a powerful and convenient connection point to 104 nonstop destinations across North America – including one of the most direct routes to the Hawaiian Islands.

Gate launch event heralds expanded travel options from Greater Los Angeles, connecting STARLUX passengers to Taipei and onward to 24 Asian destinations

Ontario, California & Taipei, Taiwan – June 2, 2024 – STARLUX Airlines, Taiwan’s premier luxury carrier, touched down in Ontario, California, for the very first time today, marking the launch of its highly anticipated route between Taipei and Ontario. The new route represents the airline’s fourth U.S. destination after Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle. Ontario also becomes STARLUX’s second gateway in Southern California, offering travelers a convenient and compelling alternative to LAX. This momentous occasion was honored by a water cannon salute upon Flight JX10 5:05 p.m. landing at Ontario International Airport (ONT) and a celebratory gate launch event ahead of Flight JX9’s 11:05 p.m. departure.

“This new route is an important milestone for STARLUX,” said Walter Liang, Chief Passenger Commercial Officer of STARLUX Airlines. “Ontario’s strategic location within the Greater Los Angeles area positions us to better connect the diverse communities of Southern California to and from Asia in luxury and comfort. We are thrilled to deepen Taiwan-U.S. ties through this expansion.

“The new service also offers travelers into and out of the greater Los Angeles area more flexibility and convenience when planning their travel with STARLUX, as they now have the choice of 14 flights a week across two airports,” he added. “It’s seamless travel—SoCal your way.”

The Greater Los Angeles area boasts one of the largest and most diverse Asian American communities in the country. Home to more than 2.5 million Asian Americans per the 2020 U.S. Census, including significant Taiwanese, Filipino, Vietnamese, Chinese, and Korean communities, the region serves as a vibrant cultural bridge between Asia and the U.S. With Ontario’s proximity to these communities, STARLUX is poised to connect families, friends, and businesses across the Pacific. The new route also opens exciting travel possibilities for passengers seeking smooth access to Taiwan and STARLUX’s extensive network of over 24 Asian destinations, including Bangkok, Hanoi, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Tokyo, through its Taipei hub.

STARLUX now flies one of its next-generation A350-900 four times weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays between Ontario International Airport and Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE). Here is the schedule:

    *Note: Flight number and schedule may change without prior notice. Please visit www.Starlux-airlines.com

      for updated information.

“This is a great day for the Inland Empire and Greater Ontario. We are excited to welcome STARLUX Airlines to the gateway to Southern California and one of the fastest growing and most popular airports in the United States. We look forward to providing STARLUX travelers with the access, convenience and outstanding customer experience that is our hallmark,” said Alan D. Wapner, president of the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) Board of Commissioners.

Inaugural Launch Ceremony at Ontario International Airport

To commemorate the inaugural Taipei–Ontario flight, STARLUX Airlines hosted a celebratory launch event at Ontario International Airport following the arrival of Flight JX10. The ceremony featured a ribbon cutting, cake cutting, a symbolic gift exchange of a commemorative aircraft model, a live string duet, and refreshments—marking the beginning of a promising new chapter in STARLUX’s U.S. expansion.

The event brought together a distinguished lineup of speakers who underscored the significance of the new route in strengthening cultural, economic, and aviation ties between Taiwan and Southern California. Remarks were delivered by Atif Elkadi, Chief Executive Officer of Ontario International Airport; Alan D. Wapner, President of the Ontario International Airport Authority Board; Amino Chi, Director General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Los Angeles; Walter Liang, Chief Passenger Commercial Officer of STARLUX Airlines; and Benjamin Brookman, Managing Director, Airport Real Estate at Alaska Airlines.

Together, they celebrated the shared commitment to providing travelers with greater connectivity, premium service, and expanded opportunities for cross-Pacific exchange.

Unmatched Luxury in the Skies

Passengers aboard STARLUX’s Airbus A350-900 can indulge in next-level luxury with four class options: First Class suites, Business Class pods, Premium Economy recliners, and spacious Economy seats. Each flight offers Michelin-rated meals, curated aromatherapy, and Collins Aerospace’s revolutionary seating designs—making every journey unforgettable. Economy passengers also enjoy elevated service, including online meal pre-orders for a truly personalized experience.

“STARLUX has always been committed to ensuring our passengers have an extraordinary travel experience,” said Liang. “With our new service to Ontario, we continue to redefine luxury air travel and meet the needs of travelers seeking premium connections between Asia and the U.S.”

Rooted in the philosophy that luxury travel should be accessible to all, STARLUX Airlines redefines international air travel by prioritizing elegance, comfort, and unparalleled customer service. With this new route, the airline continues its mission to foster closer ties between Asia and the United States.