Find and Book Cheap Flight Ticket China Airlines (CI)

About China Airlines

China Airlines (IATA code: CI, ICAO: CAL) is Taiwan's flag carrier, headquartered in Taoyuan City and operating from its home hub at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE). Despite the name, China Airlines is a Taiwanese airline through and through — it is not affiliated with mainland China-based carriers such as Air China or China Eastern Airlines. The naming dates back to the airline's founding in 1959, when the Republic of China (Taiwan) was still commonly referred to internationally as "China" in official contexts. Today, China Airlines flies under Taiwan's own regulatory authority, is majority owned by the China Aviation Development Foundation together with the Taiwan government, and proudly showcases Taiwanese identity through its livery, in-flight catering and service culture.

For travellers flying out of Singapore, China Airlines is best known for its direct service between Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) and Taipei Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), a route that also opens up convenient onward connections across North Asia, North America and beyond via its Taoyuan hub. As a member of the SkyTeam global alliance since September 2011, China Airlines gives Singapore passengers access to a much wider network of partner airlines, shared lounges and combinable mileage benefits whenever a journey needs more than one flight.

Whether you're heading to Taipei for a weekend of night markets and hot springs, or using Taoyuan as a stopover en route to Tokyo, Seoul or the West Coast of the United States, this guide covers everything Singapore-based travellers need to know about flying China Airlines — from fleet and baggage rules to cabin classes, passenger policies and how to book the best fares on Traveloka.

Airline Overview and History

China Airlines' story begins on 16 December 1959, when former Republic of China Air Force officer I Fuen founded the airline with just two PBY Catalina amphibious aircraft, initially operating charter services. From these modest beginnings, China Airlines has grown into one of Asia's leading full-service carriers, now connecting Taiwan to more than 100 destinations across Asia, Europe, North America and Oceania.

Key milestones along the way include:

• 1962 — Launch of the airline's first domestic scheduled service within Taiwan.
• 1966 — First international route launched to Saigon (present-day Ho Chi Minh City), flown with a Lockheed Super Constellation.
• 1970s — Rapid expansion of the international network across Asia, alongside the introduction of jet aircraft including the Boeing 707.
• 1976–1977 — Entry into widebody long-haul flying with the Boeing 747-100 and Boeing 747SP.
• 1990 — Delivery of the airline's first Boeing 747-400, enabling non-stop flights to North America and Europe for the first time.
• 1993 — Listing on the Taiwan Stock Exchange.
• 1995 — Introduction of the now-iconic plum blossom livery, a design that has become a symbol of Taiwanese national identity worldwide.
• 2011 — Joined the SkyTeam alliance on 28 September, significantly expanding global connectivity for its passengers.
• 2014 — First Boeing 777-300ER delivered for long-haul operations.
• 2016 — First Airbus A350-900 delivered as part of an ongoing fleet modernisation programme.
• 2025 — China Airlines finalised and subsequently expanded firm orders for next-generation Airbus A350-1000 and Boeing 777-9 aircraft, with deliveries expected to begin from 2029, positioning the airline for its next chapter of long-haul growth.

Today, China Airlines operates both passenger and cargo services, and works alongside its regional subsidiary, Mandarin Airlines, to serve destinations across Taiwan and the wider Asia-Pacific region. Its Taoyuan hub has grown in tandem, becoming one of East Asia's busiest airports and a key gateway for travellers connecting between Southeast Asia and destinations further north and across the Pacific.

Fleet and Aircraft

China Airlines operates a modern fleet of roughly 80-plus aircraft, made up of both passenger jets and dedicated freighters, giving it the range and capacity to serve everything from short regional hops to long-haul flights spanning multiple continents. The passenger fleet includes:

• Airbus A350-900 — the airline's long-haul flagship, featuring the latest cabin products with personal in-flight entertainment (IFE) screens, ambient mood lighting and quieter engines. It's deployed on flights to Europe, North America and several key Asian routes, including flights connecting through Singapore.
• Boeing 777-300ER — a high-capacity widebody used for long-haul and high-demand routes, configured with Business, Premium Economy and Economy cabins.
• Airbus A330-300 — a versatile widebody workhorse covering medium-to-long-haul routes across Asia and Oceania.
• Boeing 737-800 — a reliable narrowbody aircraft used on shorter regional routes within Asia.

Looking ahead, China Airlines has committed to a significant fleet renewal programme, with firm orders placed for next-generation Airbus A350-1000 and Boeing 777-9 aircraft, alongside Boeing 777-8 freighters, to replace older widebodies. Deliveries are expected to begin from 2029, and these aircraft promise better fuel efficiency, lower emissions and an even more comfortable passenger experience. All aircraft maintenance is carried out in accordance with Taiwan's Civil Aeronautics Administration (CAA) regulations and international aviation safety standards, giving passengers added peace of mind on every flight.

Top Flight Routes

For travellers departing Singapore, the single most important route is the direct flight between Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) and Taipei Taoyuan International Airport (TPE). This non-stop service is China Airlines' main gateway for Singapore-based passengers, offering a convenient way to reach Taiwan without any layovers, and it doubles as a launchpad for onward connections across North Asia, North America and Oceania. You can book Singapore to Taipei flights on Traveloka and compare schedules and fares across the week.

Once you land in Taipei, Taoyuan International Airport functions as China Airlines' primary hub, and from there you can connect onward to a wide range of destinations using both China Airlines and its SkyTeam partner airlines. Popular one-stop connections via Taipei for Singapore travellers include:

• Tokyo — a favourite for both leisure travellers and business flyers heading to Japan's capital. You can check Singapore to Tokyo flight options on Traveloka for through-fares via Taipei.
• Osaka — a popular gateway to the Kansai region, easily reached via a Taipei connection; see Singapore to Osaka flights on Traveloka.
• Seoul — connecting travellers to South Korea's capital via Taoyuan; explore Singapore to Seoul flight deals on Traveloka.
• Hong Kong — a short regional hop with frequent connecting options; view Singapore to Hong Kong flights on Traveloka.
• Los Angeles — a long-haul connection for travellers heading to the US West Coast, routed through Taipei on China Airlines' widebody fleet; see Singapore to Los Angeles flights on Traveloka.
• San Francisco — another popular North American gateway reachable via a Taipei stopover; compare Singapore to San Francisco flights on Traveloka.

Because Taoyuan is one of East Asia's busiest and best-connected airports, a single ticket via China Airlines can often combine a short-haul flight from Singapore with a long-haul SkyTeam partner connection, making it a practical option for multi-city itineraries. Fares on these routes shift with the season and how far ahead you book, so rather than chasing a single "cheapest" number, it's worth tracking price movements over a few weeks using Traveloka's fare calendar and setting up a Price Alert to get notified when fares on your chosen route dip.

Baggage Allowance and Policies

China Airlines uses a piece concept baggage system on most of its routes, meaning your allowance is based on the number of bags rather than total weight. Here's what Singapore travellers can expect:

Cabin Baggage

• Economy Class: 1 cabin bag (max 7kg, up to 56 x 36 x 23cm) plus 1 personal item (max 40 x 30 x 15cm).
• Premium Economy Class: 1 cabin bag (max 7kg, up to 56 x 36 x 23cm) plus 1 personal item.
• Business Class: 2 cabin bags (max 7kg each, up to 56 x 36 x 23cm) plus 1 personal item.

Checked Baggage

• Economy Discount fares: 1 suitcase, up to 23kg.
• Economy Flex fares: 2 suitcases, up to 23kg each.
• Premium Economy: 2 suitcases, up to 23kg each.
• Business Class: 2 suitcases, up to 32kg each.

Each suitcase should not exceed 158cm in total linear dimensions (length + width + height combined), and any single piece over 32kg will not be accepted for carriage regardless of fare type. If you're travelling with extra bags or expect to be near the weight limit, it's worth knowing that overweight fees for baggage between 23-28kg on Taiwan routes typically start from around USD 50 per bag, and pre-purchasing extra baggage allowance online before your flight can save you up to 10% compared to paying at the airport.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

China Airlines follows standard international aviation rules on restricted items. Hazardous materials, flammable substances, explosives and corrosives are prohibited in both cabin and checked baggage. Lithium batteries, power banks and e-cigarettes must be carried in cabin baggage only, while sharp objects such as knives and scissors should go in checked baggage. Liquids in cabin baggage are limited to 100ml per container, and all containers must fit within a single resealable clear bag.

Check-in Guide

Getting your check-in timing right helps avoid unnecessary stress at the airport, especially during peak periods. China Airlines offers both airport counter and online check-in options.

Airport Counter Check-in

• Domestic flights within Taiwan: arrive at least 1 hour before departure.
• International flights (including Singapore–Taipei): arrive at least 2.5 to 3 hours before departure.
• Counters for international flights typically close 40 to 60 minutes before departure, so build in extra buffer time.
• During peak travel periods such as Lunar New Year or school holidays, arriving earlier than the standard recommendation is strongly advised, as queues can be significantly longer.

Online Check-in

Most routes allow online check-in from 48 hours up to 60 minutes before departure. Flights to the United States have a shorter online check-in window, opening 24 hours before departure up to 60 minutes prior, in line with US government regulations. Mobile boarding passes are available for select airports and routes, and if you've already checked in online and only have checked baggage to drop off, you can usually head straight to the baggage drop counter instead of queuing at a full-service counter.

Cabin Classes and In-Flight Experience

China Airlines offers three cabin classes on its widebody aircraft, each designed to suit different travel needs and budgets.

Economy Class

Economy seats feature ergonomic design with adjustable headrests, and on the Airbus A350 and Boeing 777 aircraft, passengers enjoy personal IFE screens along with USB ports and power outlets at their seats. Seat pitch is approximately 31 to 32 inches, and complimentary meals, drinks and snacks are served on all flights regardless of route length.

Premium Economy Class

Available on the A350-900 and 777-300ER, Premium Economy offers wider seats with noticeably more legroom (approximately 39-inch pitch), priority boarding, larger personal IFE screens and an enhanced meal service with greater menu variety. Passengers also receive noise-cancelling headphones and an amenity kit for added comfort on longer flights.

Business Class

China Airlines' Business Class delivers a genuinely premium long-haul experience, with lie-flat seats offering direct aisle access on both the A350 and 777 aircraft. Dining is a highlight, with multi-course meals showcasing Taiwanese and international cuisine, paired with large personal IFE screens loaded with an extensive library of films, TV shows and music. Business Class passengers also enjoy access to the China Airlines Dynasty Lounge at Taipei Taoyuan, as well as partner lounges worldwide, along with priority check-in, boarding and baggage handling, plus premium amenity kits and bedding.

In-Flight Entertainment and Dining

Most aircraft in the fleet are equipped with personal IFE systems offering hundreds of films, TV programmes, music albums and games across multiple languages. China Airlines is well regarded for its catering, which spotlights Taiwanese specialities alongside international dishes. Special meals — including halal, vegetarian, kosher and child meals — can be pre-ordered at least 24 hours before departure via the airline's website or customer service, with halal meal options available for Singapore's Muslim travellers.

Passenger Policies and Special Services

Travelling with Children and Infants

Children aged 2 to 11 require their own seat and ticket, with child fares potentially available on select routes. Infants under 2 can travel on an accompanying adult's lap at a discounted infant fare, and bassinet seats can be requested for long-haul flights, subject to availability. A valid passport is required for all international passengers, including infants and children. Strollers and car seats can generally be checked at the boarding gate free of charge, making travel with young children more convenient.

Flying While Pregnant

Expectant mothers can fly with China Airlines up to 36 weeks for a single pregnancy, or up to 32 weeks for a multiple pregnancy, provided they carry a Medical Certificate and a completed Medical Clearance Form. The Medical Certificate must be issued by a qualified obstetrician within 10 days of the flight and must confirm fetal health status, gestation in weeks, estimated delivery date, whether it's a single or multiple pregnancy, and fitness to fly. Passengers should contact China Airlines Customer Service at least 2 business days before departure to arrange medical clearance. Travel is generally not permitted beyond 36 weeks (single pregnancy) or 32 weeks (multiple pregnancy).

Special Assistance

China Airlines provides wheelchair assistance from check-in through to boarding and deplaning, along with priority seating and pre-boarding arrangements. Onboard wheelchairs are available for in-flight mobility, and support is offered for visually and hearing impaired passengers. Anyone needing onboard medical equipment such as portable oxygen concentrators or mobility aids should notify the airline at least 48 hours before departure.

Unaccompanied Minors

Children aged 5 to 11 are eligible for the unaccompanied minor (UM) service, which provides supervision from departure through to arrival; reservations must be made at least 72 hours in advance. Children under 5 must always be accompanied by an adult. Teens aged 12 to 17 may travel alone, but can request paid airport clearance assistance for around USD 75 per one-way trip, with requests submitted at least 24 hours before departure. Parents or guardians must complete a Consent and Release for Carriage of Minors form at the time of ticket issuance, and a responsible adult must be present at both the departure and arrival airports.

Reschedule, Cancellation, and Refund Policy

Plans change, and China Airlines' rescheduling and refund terms depend largely on the fare type you've booked. If you booked through Traveloka, rescheduling is straightforward: open the Traveloka app or website, go to My Booking, select your booking, choose the reschedule option, pick your new date or flight, and pay any applicable reschedule fee or fare difference.

Flexible fares generally allow changes with lower or waived fees, while promotional or discounted fares tend to come with stricter terms and higher change fees, so it's worth checking your fare conditions at the time of booking if flexibility matters to you.

For cancellations and refunds:

• Fully flexible fares: eligible for a full refund minus any applicable service fee.
• Standard fares: a cancellation fee will be deducted from the refunded amount.
• Non-refundable promotional fares: generally non-refundable, though some may qualify for travel credit or future use depending on the specific fare conditions.

Refunds are typically processed within 7 to 30 business days, depending on your original payment method. If China Airlines makes a schedule change or the flight is disrupted for reasons within the airline's control, passengers are generally entitled to a full refund or free rebooking onto an alternative flight.

Why Book China Airlines Flights on Traveloka

Booking your China Airlines flights on Traveloka comes with a Best Price Guarantee, so Singapore travellers can book with confidence knowing they're getting competitive fares on routes like Singapore to Taipei. Beyond pricing, Traveloka makes the entire booking journey simpler — from comparing flight times and fare classes side by side, to managing your booking, rescheduling, or requesting a refund without needing to contact the airline directly.

Payment is easy and flexible for Singapore customers, with support for PayNow, GrabPay, and major credit and debit cards including Visa, Mastercard and American Express. Selected cards also come with interest-free instalment plans, making it easier to plan and pay for bigger trips, such as a long-haul connection to the US or Europe via Taipei. With round-the-clock customer support and a mobile app that keeps your itinerary, boarding details and booking history all in one place, Traveloka is built to take the hassle out of flying China Airlines.

Tips for Finding Cheap Flights on Traveloka

Airfares on routes like Singapore to Taipei naturally fluctuate depending on the season, day of the week, and how far in advance you book — so rather than waiting for a single "cheapest" fare to appear, it pays to understand these patterns and act on them. Here are some practical tips:

• Use the fare calendar. Traveloka's fare calendar lets you view price trends across an entire month at a glance, making it easy to spot which travel dates tend to be more affordable.
• Set a Price Alert. If your travel dates are flexible, set a Price Alert for your Singapore–Taipei route and get notified whenever fares shift, so you can book at a moment that suits your budget.
• Book during off-peak periods. Fares on flights to Taipei tend to rise around major holidays like Lunar New Year, Chinese New Year travel season, and school holiday periods — flying just before or after these windows can often mean better value.
• Compare cabin classes for connecting flights. If you're connecting onward from Taipei to destinations like Tokyo or Los Angeles, compare total journey fares rather than looking at each leg separately, as bundled fares can sometimes offer better overall value.
• Book early for peak travel. For long-haul connections via Taipei, especially to North America, booking further ahead generally gives you a wider choice of fare classes before the lowest-priced seats sell out.

Combining these habits with Traveloka's Best Price Guarantee gives Singapore travellers a solid strategy for keeping travel costs in check without compromising on convenience.

How to Book Flight Tickets on Traveloka

Booking your China Airlines flight on Traveloka only takes a few minutes. Here's how:

1. Open the Traveloka app or visit the Traveloka website, and enter your departure city (Singapore) and destination (such as Taipei) along with your travel dates.
2. Browse the list of available flights and filter by airline to view China Airlines options, or compare across airlines to see which fits your schedule and budget best.
3. Select your preferred flight and cabin class, then review the fare conditions, baggage allowance and any add-ons you might need, such as extra baggage or seat selection.
4. Enter passenger details exactly as they appear on each traveller's passport, and double-check names, especially for children or infants travelling on the same booking.
5. Choose your payment method — PayNow, GrabPay, or a credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, or American Express) — and complete payment. Selected cards offer interest-free instalment plans if you'd prefer to spread out the cost.
6. Once payment is confirmed, your e-ticket and booking confirmation will be available instantly in the Traveloka app under My Booking, ready for check-in, rescheduling, or any other changes you might need down the line.

With everything from fare comparison to post-booking management handled in one place, Traveloka makes it simple for Singapore travellers to book China Airlines flights to Taipei and beyond — backed by a Best Price Guarantee and support whenever you need it.