China Airlines Brings New Choices to Trans-Tasman Travel

It's not every day that a new airline shakes up the travel scene between Australia and New Zealand. But China Airlines has done just that by extending its Taipei-Melbourne route to include Auckland. This smart move solves a common problem for international airlines: expensive aircraft parked during the day. By adding a daytime return leg to Auckland, China Airlines keeps its planes busy and gives travelers more options and potentially lower fares. Melbourne Airport's Chief of Aviation, Jim Parashos, sees this as a win for consumers on both sides of the Tasman. Travelers can now enjoy a high-quality, competitive way to cross the Tasman. Plus, New Zealanders get a new gateway to Asia via Melbourne. The new service, launched in December 2024, adds over 3, 000 seats weekly to the route. It's operated with an Airbus A350-900, offering a comfy three-class layout with 306 seats. The business class cabin, with its 1-2-1 layout, ensures direct aisle access and plenty of privacy. On the inaugural flight, the experience was smooth and enjoyable. The business class seats are spacious, with useful storage and charging outlets. Despite being a short flight, the lunch menu was impressive, featuring dishes like stir-fried chicken and scallops or grilled salmon. And who can say no to a slice of Black Forest cake? China Airlines has clearly put in the effort to make its Premium Business Class top-notch. From the friendly service to the delicious food and cozy cabin, it's clear they've succeeded in setting a new standard for trans-Tasman travel.