New york: China Airlines (CAL), one of Taiwan's leading international carriers, will commence operations at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport's new terminal one in 2026, as announced by the Taiwan-based international carrier on Tuesday. This move marks a significant development in the airline's expansion strategy in the North American market.

According to Focus Taiwan, CAL President Kevin Chen and The New Terminal One CEO Jennifer Aument signed a letter of intent to establish a long-term partnership, making CAL one of the first airlines to relocate to the new terminal. This new terminal is a crucial component of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey's $19 billion project to transform JFK Airport into a world-class entry point. The construction of the terminal is being executed in phases, with completion expected by 2030. The first phase, which includes new arrivals and departures halls and the initial set of 14 gates, is scheduled to open in 2026.

The new terminal is designed with sustainability in mind, featuring advanced innovations such as a solar panel system, which will be the largest of its kind among U.S. airports, electric ground support equipment, and a rain recycle mechanism for landscaping irrigation. "With such a promising future of The New Terminal One at JFK, China Airlines also hopes for an efficient construction of the facilities," Chen remarked. "We look forward to utilizing the latest technology to promote China Airlines and share the excitement of Taiwan with our customers."

CAL expects that its operations in the new terminal will enhance passenger experience, reflecting the airline's focus on the North American market. The carrier remains optimistic about the demand for flights between Taiwan and the United States and is actively expanding its network. Currently, CAL offers services to six North American destinations, including New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Ontario, and Vancouver, with over 40 round-trip flights between Taiwan and the U.S. and Canada. This includes four weekly flights to New York using the Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.

With nearly 500 weekly flights in its network, CAL ensures robust connectivity for transfer passengers traveling between Asia and North America. In addition to passenger services, CAL operates an extensive cargo network, serving 12 destinations across North America.