Last Updated on 2025 年 7 月 13 日 by 総合編集組
Ultimate Guide to Flying from Taipei to Springfield, IL: 4 Recommended Routes and Low-Cost Options
Traveling from Taipei, Taiwan, to Springfield, Illinois, the historic capital known for Abraham Lincoln’s legacy, requires careful planning due to the absence of direct flights.
This comprehensive guide outlines four optimal flight routes, combining major airlines like EVA Air, China Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and United Airlines, alongside low-cost carriers like Allegiant Air and Breeze Airways for U.S. domestic legs. Designed for both comfort and budget-conscious travelers, this summary covers route details, booking tips, transfer advice, visa requirements, and local transportation, ensuring a seamless journey to Springfield’s cultural heart.
Route 1: EVA Air via Chicago (ORD) to Springfield (SPI)
Why Choose This Route?
EVA Air, a Star Alliance member and Skytrax five-star airline, offers a direct flight from Taipei (TPE) to Chicago O’Hare (ORD), followed by a short United Express regional flight to Springfield (SPI). This route is ideal for travelers prioritizing comfort and efficiency, with a total travel time of approximately 18 hours, including a 3-hour layover.
Sample Itinerary:
- Flight 1: EVA Air BR056, TPE to ORD, 14 hours, daily.
- Flight 2: United Airlines UA5513 (United Express), ORD to SPI, 1 hour, 2-3 daily flights.
- Estimated Cost: Round-trip economy fares range from NT$45,000 to NT$60,000, depending on season and booking time.
Advantages:
- Chicago is a major United Airlines hub, offering frequent flights and flexible connections.
- EVA Air’s premium service includes Taiwanese-style meals like beef noodle soup, enhancing long-haul comfort.
- Star Alliance benefits ensure seamless luggage transfers and mileage accumulation.
Considerations:
- Allow at least 3 hours for immigration and customs in Chicago, as processing can be lengthy.
- Winter travelers (December–February) should monitor Chicago’s weather for potential snow-related delays.
Route 2: China Airlines via Los Angeles (LAX) and Dallas (DFW) to Springfield
Why Choose This Route?
This route, leveraging China Airlines and American Airlines (both Oneworld members), involves transfers in Los Angeles (LAX) and Dallas (DFW) before reaching Springfield via American Eagle. It’s cost-effective, with round-trip fares around NT$40,000–55,000, and suits travelers interested in exploring LAX or DFW.
Sample Itinerary:
- Flight 1: China Airlines CI008, TPE to LAX, 12 hours, twice daily.
- Flight 2: American Airlines AA1234, LAX to DFW, 3 hours, multiple daily flights.
- Flight 3: American Eagle AA3701, DFW to SPI, 1.5 hours, 2-3 daily flights.
- Total Travel Time: ~19 hours, including 4 hours for transfers.
Advantages:
- Competitive fares make this a budget-friendly option.
- DFW’s extensive dining and shopping options enhance the layover experience.
- Oneworld alliance ensures luggage handling and delay protection.
Considerations:
- LAX immigration can take time; allocate 3.5 hours for transfers.
- American Eagle’s regional jets have limited luggage space, so pack light.
Route 3: China Airlines via Los Angeles to Springfield via Chicago
Why Choose This Route?
This route combines China Airlines’ affordable TPE-to-LAX flight with United Airlines’ LAX-to-Chicago (ORD) and ORD-to-SPI legs. With fares around NT$38,000–50,000, it’s ideal for budget travelers willing to handle two transfers.
Sample Itinerary:
- Flight 1: China Airlines CI006, TPE to LAX, 12 hours, twice daily.
- Flight 2: United Airlines UA789, LAX to ORD, 4 hours, multiple daily flights.
- Flight 3: United Express UA5513, ORD to SPI, 1 hour, 2-3 daily flights.
- Total Travel Time: ~21 hours, including 5 hours for transfers.
Advantages:
- Cost-effective fares compared to direct ORD routes.
- LAX offers extensive shopping and dining, including iconic In-N-Out burgers.
- United’s frequent regional flights provide scheduling flexibility.
Considerations:
- Two transfers increase luggage mishandling risks; opt for through-tickets.
- LAX’s busy terminals require early arrival for smooth processing.
Route 4: Cathay Pacific via Hong Kong (HKG) to Springfield via Chicago
Why Choose This Route?
Cathay Pacific, a Oneworld member renowned for premium service, offers a luxurious journey via Hong Kong (HKG) to Chicago (ORD), followed by a United Express flight to Springfield. This route, with fares around NT$50,000–65,000, suits travelers seeking comfort.
Sample Itinerary:
- Flight 1: Cathay Pacific CX450, TPE to HKG, 1.5 hours, multiple daily flights.
- Flight 2: Cathay Pacific CX806, HKG to ORD, 15 hours, daily.
- Flight 3: United Express UA5513, ORD to SPI, 1 hour, 2-3 daily flights.
- Total Travel Time: ~20 hours, including 3.5 hours for transfers.
Advantages:
- Cathay Pacific’s premium cabins and Hong Kong-style dim sum elevate the experience.
- HKG’s world-class airport offers seamless transfers and top-tier amenities.
- Through-ticketing ensures luggage handling and mileage benefits.
Considerations:
- Higher fares compared to other routes.
- Ensure at least 2 hours for HKG transfers to avoid tight connections.
Low-Cost U.S. Domestic Options to Springfield
For travelers already in the U.S., low-cost carriers Allegiant Air and Breeze Airways offer budget-friendly flights to Springfield (SPI) from select cities:
- Allegiant Air: An ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC) with seasonal flights from Punta Gorda, FL (PGD) to SPI. Tickets cost ~USD 50–100 one-way, but exclude baggage and seat selection (additional fees apply). Ideal for Florida-based travelers.
- Breeze Airways: A newer ULCC with direct flights from Orlando, FL (MCO) to SPI (~USD 60–120 one-way). Includes one carry-on; baggage and seats cost extra. Perfect for combining a Disney trip with Springfield.
Comparison:
| Airline | Type | SPI Route | Baggage (Base Fare) | Add-Ons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allegiant Air | ULCC | PGD ↔ SPI | Excluded | Extra cost |
| Breeze Airways | ULCC | MCO ↔ SPI | 1 carry-on included | Flexible add-ons |
Tips:
- Use Skyscanner or Kayak to compare ULCC fares and check airline websites for promotions.
- Allow 2-3 hours for transfers at PGD or MCO to handle baggage.
- Book add-ons (baggage, seats) during purchase to avoid higher airport fees.
Booking and Travel Tips
- Book Early: Reserve 2-3 months in advance to save 10-20% on fares, especially during off-peak seasons (April-May, September-November).
- Use Comparison Sites: Platforms like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Expedia help find the cheapest combinations.
- Allow Ample Transfer Time: U.S. immigration and customs require at least 3 hours; two-stop itineraries need 4+ hours.
- Through vs. Separate Tickets: Through-tickets offer luggage handling and delay protection; separate tickets are cheaper but riskier.
- Mileage Programs: Use Star Alliance (EVA Air, United) or Oneworld (China Airlines, American Airlines) for mileage and upgrades.
- Visa/ESTA: Taiwanese travelers need an ESTA (USD 21, apply 72 hours prior) even for transits.
- Luggage: Major carriers allow 2x23kg bags; regional jets have limited space, so pack light.
Springfield Airport and Local Transport
Springfield’s Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport (SPI) is small but welcoming, offering free Wi-Fi, basic dining, and car rental services (Hertz, Enterprise). From SPI to downtown (15 minutes):
- Taxi/Rideshare: Uber/Lyft, ~USD 15-20.
- Car Rental: Ideal for exploring Illinois’ countryside.
- Public Transit: Springfield Mass Transit District (SMTD) buses, but schedules are limited.
Conclusion
Flying from Taipei to Springfield, IL, requires strategic planning, but these four routes—EVA Air via Chicago, China Airlines via LAX/DFW or LAX/ORD, and Cathay Pacific via HKG—offer flexibility for all budgets. Low-cost carriers like Allegiant Air and Breeze Airways provide affordable U.S. domestic options from Florida. By booking early, using comparison tools, and leveraging alliance benefits, you can enjoy a cost-effective and comfortable trip to Springfield’s historic charm.
