Taking the helm as China Airlines CEO: Chang Yu-heng vows to boost flight safety and rank among world’s top 10 airlines

Reported by You [symbol] Ru / Taipei

Chang Yu-heng, the new CEO of China Airlines, assumed office today (3rd). With experience in both government and academia, Chang stated that his priorities upon taking office will be improving flight safety, creating a happy workplace, and nurturing talent. Citing the *I Ching*, Chang noted that in response to the frequent labor disputes among China Airlines employees in the past, he will adopt a strategy of “communication, and then more communication,” aiming to achieve greater success.


▲ Chang Yu-heng, CEO of China Airlines. (Photo / reporter You [symbol] Ru)

Chang Yu-heng, 61, graduated from the Department of Mechanical Engineering (Aeronautics Group) at National Cheng Kung University. He holds a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania and a master's degree in Transportation Engineering from National Chiao Tung University. He has previously served as Director of the Institute of Transportation at the Ministry of Transportation and Communications, Director-General of the Civil Aeronautics Administration under the Ministry of Transportation and Communications, and Chairman of the Aviation Safety Council. Chang mentioned that he has mostly worked in academia with limited hands-on industry experience, which is why he has taken on the role of China Airlines CEO.

Chang possesses strong expertise in civil aviation, transportation, and flight safety, and is well-versed in aviation policy and industry management. Quoting the *I Ching*: “When the higher and lower are in communication, all things will flow smoothly,” Chang said improving flight safety will be his top priority. In the future, he will lead China Airlines toward joining the ranks of the world’s top 10 airlines, while continuing to communicate with employees to foster a happy corporate environment.

Regarding concerns about whether his previous role as head of the Aviation Safety Council could affect the council’s impartiality toward China Airlines, Chang responded that fairness, independence, and objectivity are principles he firmly upholds and will not easily change. “If I fail to do so, anyone can ask me at any time.”