Taipei, January 29, 2003  -- EVA Air will commence new scheduled services to Chitosei, Japan from Taiwan to coincide with its new summer schedule starting March 30, 2003.

The new non-stop service providing three flights weekly will replace EVA Air's regular charter flights to Chitosei. The move follows an amendment to the airline's current air agreement with the Japanese authorities. 

Flights will depart on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays using B767-200 aircraft, catering for both inbound and outbound passengers.

K W Nieh, Senior Vice President, Public Relations Division of EVA Air commented: 'We are extremely pleased with this new development, which greatly strengthens EVA Air's links with Hokkaido. The new service not only opens Hokkaido up to independent travellers from Taiwan, but also allows inbound traffic from the region, in line with our commitment to the Taiwanese government's 'Tourism Double to Taiwan' initiative.

'EVA's charter flights to Chitosei catered solely for the outbound group travel market. We are now able to offer travellers far more flexibility and choice.'

Taiwanese Government official, Executive Yuan, launched the 'Tourism Double to Taiwan' initiative in May last year, in a move to stimulate inbound traffic to the destination.

EVA Air is Taiwan's leading independent airline serving over 40 destinations in 23 countries throughout Asia the Middle East, Australia, North America and Europe. The carrier's passenger operations serve 30 airports with a modern fleet of B747-400's, B767-200's and MD –11 aircraft.