Air France Announces Paris-Phoenix Route to Accommodate High Demand Ahead of 2024 Summer Olympics

Air France has announced plans to launch nonstop flights between Phoenix (PHX) and Paris (CDG) on May 23. The route aims to serve the increased demand for tourism to France ahead of Paris hosting the 2024 Summer Olympics from July 26 to August 11. Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego announced the city's third direct connection to Europe at an event on January 22.

[CDG,PHX]

Route Details

Air France plans to offer this route on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays using its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner fleet. This aircraft can accommodate 276 passengers across three cabin classes: 225 in economy class, 21 in premium economy, and 30 in business class. The flight will depart Paris at 10:10 a.m. and arrive in Phoenix at 12:10 p.m. the same day. In the other direction, the flight will leave Phoenix at 2:10 p.m. and land in Paris at 9:15 a.m. the next day. 

Gallego said the following about the route's launch:

"Adding non-stop service to Paris is a major milestone that demonstrates our commitment to providing convenient and efficient travel options two and from Phoenix. As our city continues to grow and become a destination for booming industries, I'm confident that direct service to Paris will unlock exciting possibilities for exploration and new business opportunities."

The Economic Benefits of Paris-Phoenix Flights

Gallego also highlighted the strong economic relationship between Arizona and France, which created the need for this route. She highlighted how direct flights to Paris would add $30 million annually to Phoenix's economy. In September, the French American Chamber of Commerce launched a chapter in Phoenix to expand international trade between Arizona and France. Research conducted by the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) reveals that over 80 French companies operate in Arizona and employ almost 11,000 people. 

In 2022, GPEC found that Arizona imported $454 million worth of goods from France, while France imported $637 million from Arizona. Aside from the economic relationship, France is one of the most popular international tourist destinations among Americans. Travelers based in Arizona will benefit from this route, especially during the busy summer season and the Summer Olympics happening this year. Air France will be the official airline of the Olympics.

Gallego said about the high demand for travel between Arizona and France:

"The number of passengers flying between Phoenix and Paris has grown nearly 40% in the last year as compared to 2019. I'm confident that this new route is going to make this frequently traveled path even smoother."

Other Nonstop International Flights from Phoenix

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport offers nonstop flights to two other European destinations. American Airlines and British Airways serve London (LHR) year-round, while Condor flies seasonally to Frankfurt (FRA). The airport also has one international flight to Asia: China Airlines' seasonal charter route to Taipei (TPE). Although most flights from Phoenix are currently to destinations within North America, this situation could change as Phoenix's population continues growing. Phoenix, which regularly ranks among the U.S.' fastest-growing cities, would require enhanced international connectivity to achieve its true potential.