Southwest Airlines Expands Global Reach with New EVA Air Partnership

Southwest Airlines has announced a significant expansion of its international network through a new codeshare agreement with EVA Air, a prominent Taiwanese carrier. This collaboration marks Southwest’s third international airline partnership and its second with an airline based in Taiwan, signaling a strategic move to offer more travel options to its customers.

Key Takeaways

• Southwest Airlines has partnered with EVA Air, a Star Alliance member based in Taipei.
• The partnership allows customers to book seamless connections on both Southwest and EVA Air flights.
• Connections are available through four U.S. gateways: Chicago O’Hare (ORD), Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), and Seattle-Tacoma (SEA).
• Bookings can be made via EVA Air’s website.
• This deal follows Southwest’s recent partnership with China Airlines and its existing relationship with Icelandair.

Expanding Horizons

Southwest Airlines continues to broaden its international footprint with the addition of EVA Air to its growing list of global partners. This new alliance aims to provide customers with enhanced connectivity and more choices for their travel needs. The Dallas-based airline expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating it is a “step forward as we continue our mission to bring more choices and new horizons to our customers.”

Seamless Connections and Booking

The partnership enables travelers to book flights that combine Southwest and EVA Air services, creating a more integrated travel experience. These seamless connections are facilitated through four key U.S. airports: Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), San Francisco International Airport (SFO), and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). Customers interested in utilizing this new partnership can make their bookings directly through EVA Air’s official website.

Strategic International Alliances

This collaboration with EVA Air is Southwest’s third international partnership, following its recent agreement with Taiwan-based China Airlines and its existing alliance with Icelandair. The airline has indicated plans for further announcements of new partners in the near future, underscoring its commitment to expanding its global reach and offering greater value to its Rapid Rewards members. Southwest CEO Bob Jordan has hinted at accelerated plans for earning and redemption opportunities on partner bookings.

EVA Air’s U.S. Expansion

For EVA Air, this partnership coincides with its own expansion efforts in the United States. The airline is set to launch new nonstop flights to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) in October. This new route will also introduce EVA Air’s latest premium economy product on its Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, further enhancing its service offerings for U.S. travelers. EVA Air is also a partner of United Airlines through their shared Star Alliance membership.