Zhang Guowei: Taiwan’s Market Is Too Small for More Than Two Airlines

▲EVA Air Chairman Zhang Guowei. (Photo / Reporter Chen Zi-yin)

Reported by Chen Zi-yin / Taipei

EVA Air Chairman Zhang Guowei pointed out today (23rd) that while both China Airlines and TransAsia Airways have been developing low-cost airline businesses lately, EVA Air still has no plans to enter the low-cost airline market. He also believes that other companies’ development of budget carriers will not affect EVA Air. Zhang explained, “Taiwan’s market scale is rather small. EVA Air won’t try to make money from every kind of business. In fact, given Taiwan’s market conditions, two national airlines should be enough.”

Zhang further stated that EVA Air has always targeted a more premium customer segment, so its target audience differs from that of low-cost carriers. Regarding recent passengers’ lack of confidence in flight safety, Zhang believes it was an isolated incident. He emphasized that EVA Air maintains very rigorous training for its crew, which can be seen in the performance of the same aircraft models operated by different airlines. He also said that flight safety is the result of accumulated effort, and when other airlines experience safety incidents, his company becomes even more vigilant. He believes the attitude of an airline toward flight safety is crucial. He said, “I can guarantee there will absolutely be no issues with ATR aircraft operated by UNI Air, and we can ensure the safety of every passenger.”

Zhang explained that EVA Air has always pursued stable development. Not only has it received recognition for flight safety, but the group’s commitment to service is also evident from its introduction of Michelin-level in-flight meals. Zhang added that in addition to the new Houston route launched this June, the airline also plans to add direct flights to Chicago and Istanbul next year, with Istanbul scheduled for seven flights per week.