Name: Ho, Nuan-Hsuan
Title: Chairman
Company, city: China Airlines; Taoyuan City, Taiwan
Number of employees: 12,645
First job: Teaching assistant
Little-known fact about you: I have extensive experience in the transportation sector, most recently as chairman of the Taoyuan Metro Corp.
Your Business
What innovations/initiatives do you foresee in the industry over the next years?
The aviation industry will continue to be shaped by global economic conditions, oil prices and geopolitical developments. Recent forecasts from major economic research groups project moderate global growth, while some of Taiwan’s key trading partners have shown slower expansion. In the near term oil prices are likely to remain subdued, though production agreements among major producers may push them higher over time. During periods of robust air travel growth, capacity has often outpaced demand; for the Asia Pacific region, both supply and demand are expected to grow strongly, with demand and capacity increases remaining closely matched. Cargo demand is forecast to expand more slowly than passenger traffic, but continued growth in available tonne-kilometres points to steady opportunities for freight operations.
Best career advice you’ve received: The only path to greatness is through tolerance and acceptance.
What advice would you give someone starting out in the field? Endure the toughest challenges early on; resilience through hardship builds the foundation for long-term success.
Ho, Nuan-Hsuan as a Traveler
Favorite travel memory or story: Business travel aboard the new China Airlines Airbus A350 and Boeing 777 aircraft.
One travel tip you cannot live without: Pack a set of essential items in various sizes of luggage ahead of time so you can depart on short notice without scrambling.
Best advice for business travelers: Keep valuables on your person at all times and minimize the risk of loss while moving between meetings and airports.
About China Airlines
Tell our readers about China Airlines’ Airbus A350, which scored a double win at TheDesignAir 2016 International Awards.
China Airlines was the first carrier in Taiwan to introduce the next-generation A350-900 XWB. The aircraft has been recognized for its advanced technology, fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. Built largely from advanced composite materials, the A350 reduces weight and limits metal fatigue, contributing to improved safety and lower operating costs. Powered by Rolls-Royce engines, the A350 lowers CO2 emissions significantly compared with earlier models, making it one of the most fuel-efficient airliners in service.
What can premium travelers look forward to from the China Airlines experience?
The A350 cabin is designed for a quieter, more spacious travel experience. Features include mood lighting and curated music to create a calm atmosphere, seven temperature zones, enhanced air filtration systems and a cabin pressurized to the equivalent of 6,000 feet for improved passenger well-being. Large windows and generous storage, including oversized overhead bins, add to onboard comfort.
In business class, a diagonal seating layout balances privacy with easy aisle access. Seats are ergonomically shaped for Asian body types and convert into fully flat 180-degree beds. Premium economy offers rigid-back seats that recline without impacting the passenger behind, with increased seat pitch and a 20-inch width for greater comfort. Economy class benefits from slim 18-inch seats and a cable-free floor that creates additional legroom; selected rows feature Family Couch seating, and the Sky Lounge area evokes the refined atmosphere of a scholar’s study for a relaxed onboard environment.
What can readers expect from China Airlines in 2017?
China Airlines plans to broaden its product choices through strategic partnerships and expanded codeshare agreements. Strengthening ties with European partners will increase connectivity between Taipei and major European hubs, enhancing options for passengers traveling to and through Amsterdam and other gateways. Full codesharing with Japan Airlines on Taiwan–Japan routes will improve schedule flexibility and ease of travel to one of the airline’s busiest markets. Combined with new destinations and the rollout of NexGen products, these initiatives aim to deliver more convenient, comfortable and competitive services as China Airlines continues to expand its international network.