Taipei-based SkyTeam member China Airlines is likely not the first choice that comes to mind when travelling to Asia and onward to Europe but they have a great but understated reputation for excellent seats and warm, professional customer service.
When flying to Taipei from Sydney or Melbourne, you will be on their newest Airbus A350 aircraft and then will continue onto Europe in the same seat on an A350 or Boeing 777 to Rome, Vienna, Frankfurt or London Gatwick.
In Premium Economy, you’ll enjoy a recliner seat in a 2-3-2 configuration with enhanced dining, an amenities kit and a 12-inch inflight entertainment screen.
Given that Economy Class fares can push the same price during peak travel periods like Christmas-New Year, Easter and the northern summer, this is a fantastic deal.
Note that all of the flights I can see, i.e. from Australia to Taipei and then onto Europe, are overnight flights, meaning you have a long transit in Taipei (~18 hours). If you have time up your sleeve and are not in a rush to get to Europe/home, you can take advantage of a day exploring Taipei on either side of your trip.
Depart: Sydney or Melbourne
Arrive: Rome, Vienna, Frankfurt or London Gatwick
Stops: Taipei
Dates: until end of July 2019
Airline: China Airlines
Lounge access: Priority Pass members can gain access to lounges or eateries in all airports; eligible American Express cardmembers can gain access to the American Express Lounge in Sydney or Melbourne
Cost: From $1,793 in Premium Economy from Sydney; add ~$50 from Melbourne; add ~$1,000 from Brisbane
Example found:
Sydney to Rome for $1,793 return:
Where to credit points: to a SkyTeam alliance frequent flyer program, with my recommendations being Air France-KLM Flying Blue, Korean Air SKYPASS or Delta SkyMiles (also a Virgin Australia partner). Read more in our guide to where to credit points.
Booking link: you can book directly through China Airlines or earn 0.7% cashback as well as Expedia Rewards points if booking through Cashrewards’ Expedia link.
Airfare deals are typically only available on limited dates. Fares may disappear quickly, so we suggest booking as soon as you are confident in your travel dates.
Images courtesy China Airlines.
These are amazing deals, how do I keep up-to-date with deals from China Airlines. I couldn’t find a subscription page..
Taoywan airport does offer a free half day tour which you can organise on the ground though we elected for a hotel room and took the train to the city to ride the hop on hop off, lunch and Taipei 101.