PHOENIX — Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport marked a major milestone Wednesday as China Airlines touched down with its inaugural nonstop flight from Taipei, the airport’s first direct route to Asia.

The 12-hour flight arrived at a celebration complete with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and applause from local leaders and international travelers. Airport officials called the launch a historic moment for Arizona.

The new service will operate three times a week, bringing as many as 300 international travelers and business leaders per flight directly into the state.

Lexie Van Haren, a spokesperson for Phoenix Sky Harbor, said international service has been expanding rapidly and plays a vital role in Arizona’s economy.

"International air surface is important to Arizona because internatio

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