Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is entering a new era of global accessibility. Starting October 27, Air France will expand its nonstop Phoenix–Paris service from three to five flights per week, offering Valley travelers more flexibility and convenience when heading to Europe.
The added flights will operate on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, using the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, renowned for its quiet cabins, improved humidity, and fuel efficiency. With three seating classes—Business, Premium Economy, and Economy—the route caters to both leisure travelers and corporate flyers.
This increase in international service positions Phoenix as a rising force in global air travel, while recent updates from Southwest Airlines and Alaska Airlines are transforming domestic flight options for Valley residents.
More Flights, More Opportunities: Air France Expands in Phoenix
Air France’s initial Phoenix–Paris route debuted in May 2023, marking the airline’s first-ever direct service from the Valley to Europe. The popularity of that service has now led to an expansion that’s expected to drive tourism, business, and cultural exchange.
“Air France’s decision to expand service is a testament to the strong partnership between the airline and our airport,” said Chad Makovsky, Director of Aviation Services for the City of Phoenix. “It’s also a reflection of the hard work and vision that has gone into positioning Sky Harbor as a world-class gateway.”
According to Mayor Kate Gallego, the added flights highlight the growing international appeal of Phoenix. “We are pleased to see our city further connected to global destinations, which helps both our economy and our cultural exchange,” she said.
The move is especially timely as fall and holiday travel ramps up. With Europe being a top destination for Valley residents, this five-times-weekly route will enhance access to Paris Charles de Gaulle International Airport, a major hub for connecting flights across Europe and beyond.
Sky Harbor’s Domestic Growth: Southwest and Alaska Step Up
The Air France expansion follows other major airline developments at Sky Harbor. Southwest Airlines, a dominant carrier in Phoenix, recently introduced its first-ever assigned seating policy and new fare bundles—a major shift for an airline known for open seating.
As reported by The Upper Middle, Southwest’s new fare structure includes bundled perks, such as EarlyBird Check-In, same-day standby options, and priority boarding. These changes are designed to accommodate the preferences of business travelers, families, and those seeking more predictability and comfort.
For Valley flyers, these enhancements mean a better experience on frequent Southwest routes to destinations like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Denver—while preserving the airline’s affordability and convenience.
Meanwhile, Alaska Airlines has increased daily service from Phoenix to San Diego, now offering four daily roundtrips. The route is ideal for weekend escapes to La Jolla, Coronado, and Downtown San Diego, giving Phoenix travelers fast, affordable access to Southern California’s coastline.
This move supports the region’s high demand for quick leisure travel and second-home access, particularly among higher-income Valley residents looking for luxury getaways without the long drive.
Why Phoenix Is Becoming a Major Travel Hub
From international luxury travel to regional getaways, Phoenix Sky Harbor is clearly growing into a top-tier airport. Recent airline expansions are a reflection of broader trends: rising post-pandemic demand, Arizona’s growing population, and an increasingly mobile workforce.
With Air France, Southwest, and Alaska Airlines all investing in Sky Harbor’s future, the airport is emerging as both a domestic connector and an international gateway.
For international travelers, the added Paris service also means better access to connecting flights across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa via Air France’s partnership with Delta Air Lines and the SkyTeam Alliance.
And for Phoenix business travelers, especially those with interests in France, Europe, or international trade, the added flexibility can reduce travel times, ease jet lag, and streamline operations.
What Travelers Need to Know
- New Air France Schedule: Flights depart Phoenix five times weekly starting October 27.
- Aircraft: Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner with Business, Premium Economy, and Economy cabins.
- Connection Hub: Paris Charles de Gaulle offers seamless access to global destinations.
- Booking: Available now on airfrance.com or through Delta’s codeshare platform.
Travelers interested in domestic upgrades can also explore Southwest’s new fare bundles via southwest.com or look for expanded Phoenix–San Diego flights through AlaskaAir.com.
Sky Harbor’s Vision Comes to Life
Sky Harbor has invested heavily in infrastructure in recent years, including a Sky Train extension, terminal upgrades, and sustainability initiatives. These improvements are paying dividends as more airlines expand their Phoenix presence.
The future looks bright for the Valley’s primary airport—and for the hundreds of thousands of travelers who depend on it each month. With global connections on the rise and regional options more abundant than ever, Sky Harbor is no longer a second-tier hub. It’s a growing anchor of American air travel.
Check out more Phoenix airlines news from Southwest and Alaska Airlines.
