The first China Airlines aircraft to fly to the UK on the airline's new non-stop route from Taiwan arrived (1 December 2017).

Having started its journey at Taipei's Taoyuan International at 08:55 local time, the Airbus A350-900 undertook a 13 hour journey to arrive at London's Gatwick airport.

The first flight commemorates the start of the only non-stop service between Taiwan and the UK, and marks China Airlines' return to the UK after a five year hiatus. The aircraft was greeted by water cannons on arrival to mark the occasion.

Nuan-Hsuan Ho, Chairman of China Airlines said: “We're delighted to be back in the UK this year, with the inaugural flight marking the ease of travel between the UK and Taiwan.”

“As the only non-stop service between the two countries, we want to highlight to travellers the benefits to travelling to Taipei, for business or leisure purposes. In addition, our extensive route network offers destinations throughout Asia and onward to Australia for British travellers to enjoy.”

Guy Stephenson, Chief Commercial Officer of London Gatwick Airport said: “We are thrilled to welcome the arrival of China Airlines to London's Gatwick airport. Today represents the strengthening of the relationship between the UK and Taiwan and our commitment to investing in bringing accessible travel to even more British customers.”

The aircraft departed London Gatwick this evening following a reception at London Gatwick airport attended by guests including Chairman Ho of China Airlines; Ambassador David Lin, Representative of the Taipei Representative Office in the UK; Lord Faulkner of Worcester, the Prime Minister's trade envoy to Taiwan; Guy Stephenson, Chief Commercial Officer for London Gatwick Airport; and the Right Honourable Greg Hands MP, Minister of State for Trade & Investment.

The China Airlines A350-900 carries up to 306 passengers, with a three class configuration available: Premium Business, Premium Economy and Economy cabins.

The flight schedule will see departures four times per week from Gatwick's South Terminal, increasing to five times per week in March 2018.

A proud member of the SkyTeam global airline alliance, China Airlines currently operate flights to destinations across Asia, North America, Europe and Australia, with a fleet of more than 80 aircraft.

The new flight schedule will operate as per the following local times:

CI70 LGW-TPE:Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday - departing 21.15, arriving 18.30 (+1)

CI69 TPE-LGW: Monday, Wednesday, Saturday - departing 09.30, arriving 15.30; Friday  - departing 08.55, arriving 14.55

To mark this occasion, special inaugural return fares to Taipei, Australia and New Zealand can be booked through www.china-airlines.com or preferred travel agents.

Take a look at the new China Airlines A350-900 by clicking here.