Southwest Airlines just announced something that would've been unthinkable just a few years ago: its first trans-Pacific airline partnership. The airline known for domestic routes and "transfarency" is now teaming up with China Airlines to connect travelers between Taiwan and the United States through a groundbreaking interline agreement.

If you've ever wished Southwest's extensive domestic network could get you closer to Asia, this partnership changes the game entirely. Here's everything you need to know about Southwest's expanding international reach and how it could transform your travel options.

Quick Summary: What You Need to Know

Partnership Basics: Southwest Airlines and China Airlines announced an interline agreement in June 2025, creating Southwest's first trans-Pacific partnership. This allows seamless connections between China Airlines' Taiwan flights and Southwest's domestic network.

Timeline: Bookings open late 2025, with flights starting early 2026.

Gateway Airports: Four West Coast hubs will offer connections: Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), Ontario (ONT), and Seattle (SEA).

What's Included: Single-ticket booking, through baggage checking, and seamless connections to over 30 Southwest domestic destinations.

Current Limitations: No codeshare agreement, no immediate loyalty program integration, and separate check-ins for each segment.

Why This Partnership Matters for Travelers

Southwest's International Expansion Strategy

For decades, Southwest built its reputation on point-to-point domestic travel with no international partnerships. That strategy worked brilliantly for a low-cost carrier focused on the U.S. market. But as travel patterns evolved and customer expectations grew, Southwest recognized the need to expand its global reach without abandoning its core business model.

The China Airlines partnership represents Southwest's second international agreement, following its successful Icelandair partnership launched in February 2025. This deliberate, measured approach allows Southwest to test international waters while maintaining operational simplicity.

"We're on a journey to bring more choices to our Customers," said Andrew Watterson, Southwest's Chief Operating Officer. "This initial work to partner with Taiwan-based China Airlines would allow for seamless trans-Pacific journeys across the Southwest network."

Filling the Asia Travel Gap

Before this partnership, Southwest passengers wanting to reach Asia faced a challenging reality: they'd need to book separate tickets, handle their own connections, and navigate complex international transfers. The China Airlines agreement solves this problem by creating true interline connectivity.

China Airlines operates five daily flights to the West Coast from Taipei, serving exactly the airports where Southwest has strong domestic networks. This isn't coincidental—it's strategic alignment that benefits travelers from both airlines.

Competition with Legacy Carriers

This partnership puts Southwest in direct competition with legacy carriers for trans-Pacific connecting traffic. While Delta, United, and American have extensive Asia partnerships through their alliance memberships, Southwest is carving out its own path with carefully selected bilateral agreements.

The advantage? Southwest's famous customer-friendly policies—including two free checked bags and no change fees—now extend to trans-Pacific journeys. That's significant value that alliance carriers can't easily match.

How the Southwest-China Airlines Partnership Works

Interline Agreement Basics

An interline agreement is the most basic form of airline cooperation, but it's more powerful than it sounds. When you book an interline itinerary, you get a single ticket covering both airlines, coordinated baggage handling, and protected connections if something goes wrong.

Here's what that means practically: if you're flying from Taipei (TPE) to Los Angeles (LAX) on China Airlines, you could continue on a domestic leg to Las Vegas (LAS) or Denver (DEN) on Southwest using one booking and one checked bag process.

Booking Process and Channels

Initially, these connections will be bookable through China Airlines' website and third-party travel agencies. Southwest expects to add booking capability through Southwest.com in the future, though no specific timeline has been announced.

The booking process will work like this:

1. Search for your complete journey on China Airlines' website
2. Select itineraries that include Southwest connections
3. Book with a single ticket covering both carriers
4. Check in separately for each airline segment
5. Collect baggage at your final destination

Baggage Handling and Check-in

One of the biggest advantages of interline agreements is through baggage checking. Your bags will transfer automatically between airlines, even though you'll need to check in separately for each flight segment.

Southwest's generous two-free-bags policy applies to the domestic portion of your journey, while China Airlines' international baggage allowances cover the trans-Pacific segment. This combination often results in more generous baggage allowances than you'd get with legacy carriers charging for every bag.

Future Integration Plans

Southwest has indicated that deeper integration is planned for future phases. This could include:

• Southwest.com booking capabilities for complete itineraries
• Rapid Rewards earning and redemption on China Airlines flights
• Coordinated check-in processes to streamline the passenger experience
• Joint marketing and promotional opportunities

The timeline for these enhancements hasn't been specified, but Southwest's pattern with Icelandair suggests gradual rollouts over 12-18 months.

Routes and Destinations You Can Access

Four West Coast Gateways

The partnership focuses on four strategic West Coast airports where both airlines have significant operations:

Los Angeles (LAX): Southwest's largest West Coast hub with connections to over 40 destinations. China Airlines operates daily flights to Taipei with excellent connectivity throughout Asia.

San Francisco (SFO): A major tech hub with strong Southwest domestic connectivity and China Airlines' gateway for Northern California travelers.

Ontario (ONT): Southwest's growing focus airport serving the Inland Empire, where the carrier has limited competition and strong market position.

Seattle (SEA): Southwest's newest major market with China Airlines providing Pacific Northwest access to Asia.

China Airlines' Taiwan and Asia Network

From Taipei, China Airlines offers extensive connectivity throughout Asia, including:

• Major Chinese cities: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou
• Southeast Asia: Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Manila
• Northeast Asia: Tokyo, Seoul, Osaka
• Other destinations: Hong Kong, Ho Chi Minh City, Jakarta

This network effectively gives Southwest passengers one-stop access to virtually any major Asian destination via Taipei.

Southwest's Domestic Network Coverage

Southwest's domestic network from these four gateways covers all major U.S. regions:

Southwest: Las Vegas, Phoenix, San Diego, Denver Mountain West: Salt Lake City, Albuquerque, Boise Central:Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, St. Louis Southeast: Atlanta, Nashville, New Orleans, Florida cities Northeast: Chicago, Baltimore, Boston, New York area

The partnership allows travelers to use the carriers' four main gateways to continue on to other major U.S. cities including Las Vegas, Phoenix, Dallas, Houston, Denver, Atlanta, and Chicago. Popular vacation destinations such as Florida are also covered.

Maximizing Value with Rapid Rewards Points

Current Earning Limitations

Initially, this partnership won't include Rapid Rewards earning or redemption on China Airlines flights. You'll earn points only on the Southwest-operated segments of your journey, following standard Rapid Rewards earning rates.

For reference, Southwest earnings depend on your fare type and elite status:

• Basic fares: 6 points per dollar spent
• Standard fares: 8 points per dollar spent
• Business Select fares: 12 points per dollar spent
• A-List members: 25% bonus on all earnings
• A-List Preferred members: 100% bonus on all earnings

Future Points Redemption Possibilities

Southwest has hinted that Rapid Rewards integration could come in future partnership phases. When this happens, you might be able to:

• Redeem Southwest points for the entire interline itinerary
• Earn points on China Airlines segments
• Use Companion Pass benefits for trans-Pacific travel

This would be revolutionary for Southwest flyers, dramatically expanding the utility of Rapid Rewards points beyond domestic and Caribbean destinations. To learn more about Southwest's Companion Pass and how to earn it, read our guide on the new Companion Pass offer from Southwest.

Complementary Chase Ultimate Rewards Strategy

While waiting for direct integration, savvy travelers can maximize value through Chase Ultimate Rewards. Chase points transfer to Southwest at a 1:1 ratio, and several Chase cards offer excellent earning rates for travel expenses.

Consider the Chase Sapphire Preferred for its strong travel earning rate and Ultimate Rewards flexibility. You can earn Chase points on your China Airlines flights, then transfer them to Southwest for domestic redemptions—creating a powerful one-two combination for trans-Pacific travel. Learn more about maximizing these points in our complete guide to Chase Ultimate Rewards.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve takes this strategy further with premium travel benefits like airport lounge access and travel insurance that provide extra value for long international journeys. For a detailed comparison, check out our Chase Sapphire showdown between the Preferred and Reserve cards.

Common Questions and Potential Pitfalls

Booking Complications to Avoid

The biggest potential pitfall is booking separate tickets instead of using the interline agreement. If you book Southwest and China Airlines flights separately:

• No baggage transfer between airlines
• No protection if one flight delays the other
• Higher costs from duplicate booking fees
• More complexity managing two separate reservations

Always book through channels that offer the complete interline itinerary to get full partnership benefits.

Elite Status Benefits and Limitations

Southwest elite status benefits apply only to Southwest-operated segments. Don't expect A-List priority boarding or free drinks on China Airlines flights, even with a single ticket.

Similarly, China Airlines elite members get their benefits only on China Airlines segments. The partnership doesn't currently include reciprocal elite recognition.

Baggage Fee Considerations

While Southwest includes two free bags on domestic segments, China Airlines international baggage policies apply to the trans-Pacific portion. Most China Airlines economy tickets include one free checked bag internationally, but verify allowances when booking.

For travelers with multiple bags, this partnership often provides better value than legacy carriers that charge for every bag on both domestic and international segments.

Comparing to Other International Options

Southwest vs. Legacy Carriers for Asia Travel

Traditional options for Asia travel typically involve legacy carriers like United, Delta, or American with their respective Asian partners. Here's how Southwest's new option compares:

Advantages of Southwest Partnership:

• Two free checked bags on domestic segments
• No change fees (Southwest policy)
• Potential for lower total costs
• Access to Southwest's unique destination network

Legacy Carrier Advantages:

• More frequent flights and routing options
• Integrated loyalty programs
• Premium cabin availability
• Established operational relationships

Cost Comparison Analysis

Early indications suggest the Southwest-China Airlines combination could offer compelling value for certain routes. Southwest's competitive domestic pricing, combined with China Airlines' reasonable trans-Pacific fares, often undercuts legacy carrier pricing.

However, true cost comparisons won't be possible until bookings open in late 2025. Monitor pricing carefully and compare total journey costs, not just individual segments.

Value Proposition Assessment

This partnership makes most sense for travelers who:

• Live near Southwest's four gateway cities
• Value Southwest's unique destinations not well-served by legacy carriers
• Prioritize cost savings over premium amenities
• Don't need frequent trans-Pacific travel where elite benefits matter more

It's less compelling for frequent flyers who benefit from legacy carrier elite status or those who prefer non-stop international flights from other U.S. cities.

Future Outlook and Additional Partnerships

Southwest's Broader International Strategy

Southwest's international strategy appears focused on strategic partnerships rather than independent international expansion. This approach allows the carrier to expand global reach while maintaining operational simplicity and cost efficiency.

"We've found great interest globally in potential partnerships with Southwest and continue discussions here in New Delhi with several like-minded carriers attracted to our consistent Reliability, friendly brand, and unmatched network in the United States," Watterson said.

Potential Additional Asian Partners

Industry analysts speculate that Southwest might add partnerships with other Asian carriers to build a comprehensive network. Potential candidates include:

• Korean Air for Seoul connections
• JAL or ANA for Japan routes
• Singapore Airlines for Southeast Asia access
• Philippines Airlines for Manila connections

Each additional partner would exponentially increase Southwest's effective international reach.

Timeline for Enhanced Integration

Based on Southwest's Icelandair partnership progression, expect enhanced integration features to roll out over 12-24 months:

• Q4 2025: Initial bookings and flights begin
• Q1-Q2 2026: Southwest.com booking capability added
• Q3-Q4 2026: Potential Rapid Rewards integration
• 2027: Full partnership maturity with loyalty cross-recognition

This timeline is speculative but aligns with Southwest's methodical approach to international partnerships.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I book these flights?

Published connections should go on sale later in 2025, with service operating in early 2026. Specific booking dates haven't been announced, but expect availability sometime in Q4 2025.

Can I earn Rapid Rewards points?

Initially, you'll earn Rapid Rewards points only on Southwest-operated segments. Rapid Rewards® Members who book an itinerary through Icelandair that includes a Southwest Airlines operated segment can earn Rapid Rewards points. Similar earning should apply to China Airlines partnerships.

Will there be assigned seating?

Southwest maintains its open seating policy on all flights, including partnership connections. China Airlines uses assigned seating, so you'll experience both systems on interline itineraries.

How does this compare to the Icelandair partnership?

The China Airlines partnership follows a similar model to Southwest's Icelandair agreement, starting with basic interline service and gradually adding features. The main difference is geographic scope—China Airlines opens access to Asia versus Icelandair's European network.

What about travel insurance for these longer journeys?

International travel insurance becomes more important for trans-Pacific journeys. Consider comprehensive coverage through providers like Faye Travel Insurance or InsureMyTrip to protect against extended delays, medical emergencies, or trip cancellations. For more guidance on travel insurance options, check our article on travel protection through credit cards.

For extended stays in Asia, an eSIM from Airalo can provide affordable international data connectivity without expensive roaming charges.

Conclusion: What This Means for Your Travel Plans

Southwest's partnership with China Airlines represents a significant shift in how Americans can access Asia. While current limitations prevent this from being a complete legacy carrier replacement, it opens valuable new possibilities for cost-conscious travelers.

Action Items for Travelers

Immediate steps:

1. Monitor Southwest and China Airlines websites for booking availability
2. Consider Chase Ultimate Rewards cards to maximize points earning flexibility
3. Plan potential Asia trips around the four gateway cities
4. Research China Airlines' Asia network for connecting possibilities using award search tools

Long-term planning:

1. Watch for enhanced integration announcements
2. Compare pricing against legacy carriers when bookings open
3. Consider Southwest credit cards if you'll use this partnership frequently

Timeline to Watch

The most important dates to monitor:

• Late 2025: First bookings become available
• Early 2026: Service launches
• Mid-2026: Potential Southwest.com integration
• Late 2026: Possible Rapid Rewards program integration

Southwest's methodical approach to international partnerships suggests this is just the beginning. If the China Airlines partnership succeeds, expect additional Asian carriers to join Southwest's growing international network.

For travelers who've long wished Southwest could take them beyond North America, that wish is finally becoming reality. The partnership won't work for every trip, but it significantly expands your options for reaching Asia affordably through America's favorite low-cost carrier.

Ready to start earning points for future Southwest redemptions? Consider the Chase Sapphire Preferred for its flexible Ultimate Rewards earning and transfer options, or explore Southwest's Rapid Rewards credit cards to maximize your earning potential on this expanding network. Business travelers might also want to consider the Chase Ink Business Preferred for maximizing Chase Ultimate Rewards on business expenses.