Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our credit card rating methodology.

Southwest Partners With China Airlines for Interline Agreement

Chris Hassan's image
Chris Hassan
Edited by: Ryan Smith
Jump to Section

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Southwest Airlines has been busy lately. However, most of the press has been negative. With the airline now charging for checked bags and reducing elite benefits, loyal fans have been debating their loyalty.

Southwest wants to add some positive news by announcing a partnership with China Airlines.

Will that be enough good press — or any benefit — to Southwest flyers? Let’s take a look at the details.

Advertisement

Southwest and China Airlines Partnership

Southwest announced its newest partnership will be with China Airlines, with sales starting in late 2025 for flights in 2026.

China Airlines Airbus A350
Image Credit: Daniel Ross

This will be an interline agreement, which will allow passengers on China Airlines to connect to destinations in the U.S. via Southwest‘s existing routes and vice versa. Since this is not a codeshare, passengers will not receive any elite status or loyalty benefits.

As we continue our mission to bring more choices to our Customers, we’re thrilled to announce our newest interline partnership with China Airlines (CAL), a Taiwan-based carrier. This agreement brings the opportunity for China Airlines’ customers to experience our renowned Southwest hospitality

Southwest Airlines

China Airlines passengers will be able to continue their journey in the U.S. from West Coast connection points, including Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), Ontario (ONT), and Seattle (SEA).

While this is good news for anyone flying China Airlines who wants to get somewhere Southwest flies to, China Airlines already has a partnership with Delta that allows it to connect passengers across Delta’s network. The only difference here is that Southwest has more options out of Ontario.

Southwest Airlines’ Many Changes

Southwest is in the middle of significant changes that have shaken up its identity.

Once popular with travelers for its cheap flights and free bags, the airline is shifting towards a more traditional model that includes new fare classes, charging for bags, and has even removed benefits for elite members.

While the company has said these steps are necessary for future success, other airlines are poaching customers who have realized the grass may be greener on the other side. American Airlines, Delta, and JetBlue have extended status match offers to many Southwest elites looking to try a competitor.

Hot Tip:

Is Southwest’s EarlyBird Check-In worth it? Read the reasons one of our team members regrets buying it.

Advertisement

Final Thoughts

Southwest Airlines and China Airlines have partnered on an interline agreement that will allow passengers to connect from Taiwan throughout Southwest’s U.S. network.

This is good news for some passengers. However, without any codeshare perks, there aren’t too many benefits for most Southwest passengers.

Chris Hassan's image

About Chris Hassan

Chris holds a B.S. in Hospitality and Tourism Management and managed social media for all Marriott properties in South America, making him a perfect fit for UP and its social media channels. He has a passion for making content catered toward family travelers.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE

Deluxe Travel Provided by UP Pulse

Get the latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's privacy policy  and terms of service  apply.

Deluxe Travel Provided by UP Pulse
DMCA.com Protection Status