Just in time for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, Air France has announced a new U.S. gateway: nonstop service between Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport beginning in May 2024.
“Adding nonstop service to Paris is a major milestone that demonstrates our commitment to providing convenient and efficient travel options to and from Phoenix,” said Mayor Kate Gallego. “As our city continues to grow and become a destination for booming industries, I’m confident that direct service to Paris will unlock exciting possibilities for exploration and new business opportunities.”
© Air France
The new route begins May 23 and will be operated with a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. During the summer schedule the service will run three times weekly — on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays — offering a convenient option for both leisure travelers and business passengers. The aircraft features a three-class cabin layout with 30 business-class seats, 21 premium economy seats and 228 economy seats, designed to balance comfort and capacity on the transatlantic crossing.
Typical scheduling for the route departs Paris at 10:10 a.m. local time, arriving in Phoenix at 12:10 p.m. local time the same day. The return service leaves Phoenix at 2:10 p.m. and arrives at Paris Charles de Gaulle the following morning at 9:15 a.m., providing morning access to the French capital for onward connections or meetings.
“Air France is thrilled to announce a direct link between Arizona and Paris with our newest, nonstop route coming in May,” said Boaz Hulsman, vice president of Commercial, North America, Air France-KLM. “Becoming the 22nd North American gateway for Air France next summer season, this new service symbolizes our commitment to enhancing the transatlantic travel connection. We look forward to soon providing passengers from Phoenix with an experience embodying the best of French elegance.”
The route expands Air France’s U.S. network and reflects growing demand for direct, long-haul connections from secondary and fast-growing domestic markets. Direct flights like this are valuable to both visitors and local businesses: they shorten travel times, cut the need for connections, and create more predictable schedules for international meetings, trade missions and tourism flows.
For travelers, the three-class Dreamliner offers a range of options. Business class provides a lie-flat experience and enhanced privacy for long-haul comfort. Premium economy presents a middle ground with greater legroom and upgraded amenities compared with standard economy, while the main cabin remains a cost-conscious choice for families, tour groups and solo travelers. The Dreamliner’s design also emphasizes passenger comfort through improved cabin pressurization, larger windows and a quieter interior, which can make transatlantic travel less fatiguing.
Air France’s expansion to Phoenix arrives as the city increases its profile on the world stage. Phoenix has seen steady population and economic growth, attracted technology and service-sector companies, and expanded its visitor offerings. A direct link to Paris offers new opportunities for business collaboration, cultural exchange and tourism — particularly during high-profile events such as the Olympic Games, which typically drive increased international travel.
Flight frequencies, schedules and aircraft assignments may be adjusted seasonally, and passengers should check with the airline for the most current information and booking options. The introduction of nonstop Phoenix–Paris service adds a useful transatlantic option for travelers in the American Southwest and strengthens air travel links between Arizona and Europe.