Air France expands operation with Sky Harbor
Air France is increasing the number of nonstop flights between Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport to five times weekly starting in May, an expansion expected to significantly benefit Arizona’s economy.
According to Phoenix Sky Harbor’s most recent economic impact study, international flights contribute more than $3 billion to the state’s economy each year.
The nonstop Phoenix–Paris service, which launched in May 2024 with three weekly flights, was projected to generate $70 million in annual economic impact. With the increased frequency and a larger aircraft now in operation, that number is estimated to rise to $103 million annually.
“Since the launch of their Paris service just under a year ago, Air France has almost doubled the capacity of the Phoenix-Paris route,” Phoenix Aviation Director Chad Makovsky said. “The airline has been a fantastic addition to our airport, and we are grateful for their partnership and commitment to growing this route. With the announced capacity increase, this nonstop flight alone is estimated to have an estimated $103 million annual statewide economic impact, benefitting all of Arizona.”
The route’s May 2024 launch marked the first-ever nonstop air service between Phoenix and France. Initially operated three times a week using a Boeing 787-900 Dreamliner with 279 seats, the service now uses the more spacious Airbus A350-900. The upgraded aircraft includes 324 seats and an expanded business class with 34 seats, offering passengers more comfort and flexibility.
The increase to five weekly flights gives travelers more choices and enhances competition on fares, not only to France but to the more than 190 destinations Air France serves beyond Paris. The expanded service complements Phoenix’s existing transatlantic routes to London Heathrow, operated by both American Airlines and British Airways.
“Air France is very pleased with the Phoenix-Paris route and we are excited the frequency is increasing,” said Boaz Hulsman, vice president of commercial, North America at Air France-KLM. “This capacity increase symbolizes our commitment to enhancing the transatlantic travel connection. We look forward to soon providing more passengers from Phoenix with an experience embodying the best of French elegance.”
In addition to international connectivity, the enhanced Air France schedule supports domestic travel through its codeshare partnership with Delta Air Lines, enabling seamless U.S. connections. Travelers can also access broader European and global destinations through KLM, another Air France partner.
Sky Harbor, known as America’s Friendliest Airport, currently offers nonstop service to over 140 destinations worldwide. The increased service to Paris underscores Phoenix’s growing role as a hub for international commerce, tourism, and cultural exchange.