EVA Air celebrated the launch of its new nonstop service between Washington D.C. and Taipei on June 26, 2026, marking a significant expansion as the airline's 10th North American gateway. The route is the first nonstop connection between the two cities, strengthening ties between Taiwan and the U.S. East Coast. A special inaugural ceremony was held at Washington Dulles International Airport, featuring a water cannon salute for the arriving flight.
Inaugural Ceremony Highlights
The event was jointly presided over by EVA Air President Clay Sun alongside distinguished guests including Virginia Department of Aviation Director Gregory W. Campbell, Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority President and CEO Jack Potter, MWAA Executive Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer Chryssa Westerlund, MWAA Vice President of Airline Business Development Paul Bobson, and Representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States Alexander Tah-ray Yui. Additionally, Han Kuo-Yu, President of the Legislative Yuan of Taiwan, led a cross-party congressional delegation on the historic flight and participated in the ribbon-cutting.
Official Statements
“It is a great honor to be invited to the inaugural ceremony of EVA Air’s direct service between Washington, D.C. and Taipei,” said Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-Yu. “This new route not only reflects the growing travel demand between Taiwan and the U.S., but also marks a new milestone in our partnership.”
“As the United States celebrates its semi-quincentennial, I am delighted to see EVA Air launch its direct flights between Taipei and Washington, D.C. at this historic moment,” said Representative Alexander Tah-ray Yui.
“Washington Dulles International Airport serves as a vital gateway to the nation’s capital area. We are immensely grateful for the strong support from all our partners and guests that made expanding our network into the heart of America possible,” said Clay Sun, President of EVA Air. “We see immense market potential in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. This new route will seamlessly enhance EVA Air’s network across the eastern United States, delivering premium service to both business and leisure travelers alike.”
Ceremonial Events and Gifts
Upon arrival, MWAA President and CEO Jack Potter personally welcomed EVA Air President Clay Sun and the inaugural passengers on the tarmac. The ceremony featured a traditional dragon and lion dance performance and an exchange of commemorative gifts. Sun presented a model of a Boeing 787-9 aircraft, while Potter gave a custom-framed map of Washington D.C., symbolizing the new aerial bridge and close cooperation. Passengers on the inaugural flight received special commemorative gifts, including limited-edition EVA Air and Taiwan Tourism Administration items.
