Can you believe it? It’s been almost 10 years since my 1st time flying China Airlines Business Class to Taiwan. My brother was with me on that special occasion and I remember the hype when we stepped onto the bulkhead center seats of the spanking new 777-300ER plane. On this solo flight, I was curious to see how this premium product over the decade has evolved and I’m happy to share that the airline was the perfect wingman in making my short (but sweet) trip worth it in maximizing 台北 memories with family and friends
Booking
There are limited ways to book China Airlines Business Class with miles. It’s not as straightforward as EVA and Starlux. Nevertheless, I’ll help highlight them if this has ever been on your bucket list. The easiest (albeit expensive) method to do it is thru Delta Airlines. Since China Airlines is part of SkyTeam alliance, you can redeem this experience at 195,000 miles one way.
Similarly since Air France is another partner of SkyTeam alliance, you can redeem this experience at 140,500 miles. Right now American Express has a transfer promo of 25% bonus miles so theoretically you can redeem this right now at only 112,400 points.
Personally, I redeemed this thru an upgrade redemption. Like Emirates “secret” sweet spot, you can redeem 35,000 miles if you book a certain class of cash fare. If the seat is available, you can convert your China Airlines miles and upgrade to Business Class. A lot cheaper than 195,000 Delta SkyPesos!
LAX TBIT
On brand, I arrived at LAX pretty late and was one of the last ones to check-in. It reminded me of the time in how I almost missed my Hello Kitty flight in Taiwan… oops
Korean Air recently unveiled its new flagship lounge at LAX. This $45 million facelift has even a Ramyeon and Moët bar. And since the airline is part of SkyTeam, all China Airlines Business Class plus SkyTeam Elite Plus passengers has access to this newly renovated lounge.
Experience
There’s a certain aura of nostalgia and warmth when you step onto a plane you grew up with. As I got seated to 11K window, I noticed the airline is featuring Zootopia 2.
What’s lovely about the 777-300ER is the real estate you get compared to the A350 planes. The width and depth of the seat can easily cocoon a 6 ft+ passenger.
Immediately, I noticed a huge upgrade in catering. For champagne, they now offer the 2015 Laurent-Perrier Millesime Brut which normally retails $110+USD/bottle. I was surprised to see this bottle and regretted instantly in drinking Moët at the Korean lounge at LAX… it’s ok I was still able to finish this vintage by the end of the 14 hr flight 😘
For China Airlines, you can preorder your meals upon departure…
- Wagyu Ribeye with Uni Butter and Crispy Fingerling Potatoes
- Plain congee with assorted delicatessen / Julienne Vegetables with Pine Nut Pork / Steamed Egg with Ground Chicken
The Moschino amenity kit was useful to freshen up after the delicious onboard meals. Since I had a stacked itinerary in Taiwan when I landed, it was important for me to PTFO
For me personally, China Airlines has the best bed compared to EVA and Starlux. Just look at how much room you can roll around.
I comfortably slept 8 hours and woke up well-rested (with the champagne refilled too 👏)
The flight attendants gave me a gift bag at sunrise right before landing. I was touched at how she noticed I liked munching on the “mixed snacks” bags and gave me a whole package of them that will last me probably until the new year
Overall, China Airlines Business Class exceeded my expectations. To my surprise, the service and catering has been dialed up and makes it as good as (if not better) than EVA and Starlux in the Taiwan competitive market. Personally, it has the most comfortable bed in the sky if you’re traveling to Taiwan..
早安台灣
Chai Bear World 