Introduction: Taiwan’s flagship carrier, China Airlines (CAL), has unveiled plans to significantly increase its European flight capacity starting in the second half of 2025. The airline’s president, Kao Shing-hwang, stated that expanding direct flights to Prague and Vienna is a key priority, driven by increasing demand for European travel.
Key Focus on Prague and Vienna Routes
During an interview in Hamburg, Germany, Kao shared that the airline’s current European routes are seeing strong passenger loads, with more than 85% of seats filled. The holiday season has been especially strong, with CAL reporting 80% of seats sold during the Christmas peak period. As a result, the airline is aiming to further strengthen its European network, specifically focusing on Prague and Vienna.
Kao confirmed that CAL’s goal is to increase the number of weekly flights to Prague from two to five and to Vienna from four to six starting in the second half of 2025. This would bring the total number of CAL flights to Europe to 30 per week.
| Destination | Current Weekly Flights | Planned Weekly Flights (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Prague | 2 | 5 |
| Vienna | 4 | 6 |
Success of Prague Route and Increasing Demand
China Airlines’ direct flights to Prague, launched in 2023, have been especially popular, boasting an impressive 90% occupancy rate. CAL is currently the only airline offering direct service between Taipei and Prague, making it a unique option for travelers from Taiwan and the surrounding regions.
Additionally, Kao noted that the Prague route has attracted not only tourists but also business travelers, especially from German cities like Nuremberg and Dresden, which are within reach of Prague. This demand is partly driven by the recent expansion of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), which has set up a new factory in Dresden.
CAL’s European Expansion Strategy
Currently, China Airlines operates direct flights to six major cities in Europe: Amsterdam (Netherlands), Frankfurt (Germany), Vienna (Austria), London (UK), Rome (Italy), and Prague (Czech Republic). With these additional flights to Prague and Vienna, CAL is solidifying its position as the Taiwanese airline with the most direct European routes.
Record Profits and Fleet Growth
China Airlines also announced its third-quarter financial results, with a record net profit of NT$10.37 billion (US$319.67 million), the highest in its nearly 65 years of operation. The airline reported earnings per share of NT$1.71 and consolidated revenues of NT$150.93 billion for the first three quarters of 2024.
This growth is attributed to strong demand from passengers and a boost in cargo flight operations. Kao remarked that the airline’s yearly profits are expected to remain high, thanks to the peak season effects in the fourth quarter. He also hinted at a record-breaking year-end bonus for CAL employees, but did not provide further details.
CAL’s Fleet and Future Outlook
China Airlines currently boasts a fleet of 82 aircraft, operating 560 flights per week. The airline continues to modernize its fleet and expand its reach, aiming to meet growing demand for both passenger and cargo services.
FAQs
Q1: What are China Airlines’ plans for expanding European flights?
A1: China Airlines plans to increase direct flights to Prague and Vienna in the second half of 2025. The airline aims to raise weekly flights to Prague from two to five and to Vienna from four to six.
Q2: Why is the Prague route so successful for China Airlines?
A2: The direct flight from Taipei to Prague, launched in 2023, has attracted both tourists and business travelers, particularly from nearby cities like Nuremberg and Dresden, due to its high occupancy rate of 90%.
Q3: How is China Airlines performing financially?
A3: In the third quarter of 2024, China Airlines reported a record net profit of NT$10.37 billion, driven by strong passenger demand and increased cargo flight operations.
Q4: What other European destinations does China Airlines fly to?
A4: In addition to Prague and Vienna, China Airlines flies to Amsterdam, Frankfurt, London, and Rome.
Q5: What is China Airlines’ fleet size?
A5: China Airlines operates a fleet of 82 aircraft and conducts 560 flights per week.
