Dubai-based Emirates airline today launched its daily non-stop service from Dubai International Airport to Taiwan's capital Taipei.

“Emirates and Taipei began their partnership in 2003 when Emirates Skycargo launched freighter services from Dubai. I am proud that we have been able to increase our commitment and begin daily, non-stop passengers services from today,” said Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, chairman and chief executive, Emirates Airline & Group.

“Dubai and Taipei are very similar, both are important trading hubs and today’s link will help to build on bilateral trade. We have been working hard to promote Taipei across our network and I am confident that the influx of business and leisure passengers will continue to grow,” added Sheikh Ahmed.    

The EK366 flight was greeted at the Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport with a traditional water cannon salute and the passengers were welcomed by Yin Chen-Pong, chairman of Taipei Taoyuan Airport Authority; Barry Brown, Emirates divisional senior vice president, Commercial Operations East; and Edwin Lau, Emirates’ vice president Hong Kong and Taiwan.

Emirates’ Taipei service is operated by a Boeing 777-300ER, equipped with eight luxurious private suites in First Class, 42 lie-flat seats in Business Class, and 304 Economy Class seats.

Taipei, home to nearly seven million people, is an economic and cultural centre with renowned sights, attractions and a myriad of shopping options. The destination is famous for producing and exporting electronics, textiles, plastics and rubber, optical and photographic instruments and chemicals.

Emirates now operates services to 141 destinations in 80 countries from Dubai.  - Trade Arabia News Service