China Airlines has just debuted its exciting new fifth freedom flight from Melbourne Airport to Auckland Airport, igniting the opportunity for travelers to experience top-notch service between Australia and New Zealand. The inaugural flight, CI 57, took off from Melbourne at 13:57 local time, landing in Auckland three hours and 30 minutes later at 19:34. Passengers can now relish lie-flat business class seats aboard the A350 aircraft, equipped with three cabin classes: business, premium economy, and economy.

This fresh route extension, stemming from China Airlines' Taipei-Melbourne service, arrives just in time for the festive summer season, infusing over 3,000 additional seats per week into the Melbourne-Auckland market. Jim Parashos, Melbourne Airport Chief of Aviation, hailed this move, asserting, “China Airlines’ decision to extend its Taipei-Melbourne route to Auckland provides travelers with a high-quality and competitive option to cross the Tasman.”

As holiday anticipation builds, families and voyagers alike stand to gain from the increased flight capacity during peak demand. Parashos emphasized the added benefit this brings to New Zealanders seeking Asian connectivity through Melbourne, creating newfound avenues to Taipei and beyond. The five extra weekly flights are welcomed as a source of “much-needed competition,” anticipated to drive airfare drops and amplify choices for passengers across the Tasman.

Amid the celebratory ambiance marking the Melbourne to Auckland service launch, China Airlines delighted passengers with 500 complimentary servings of Xiao Long Bao dumplings at Melbourne Airport. These iconic soup dumplings, renowned for their delicate skins and flavorful soupy fillings, are a beloved Taiwanese specialty offering a tasty glimpse into the airline’s distinct culinary touches.