Airline launches speed dating on "flights to nowhere"

Single people in Taiwan who are looking for love may be in luck this holiday period, thanks to three speed dating flights that aim to help them find the person of their dreams. In addition to the time spent on board, there will also be a two-hour soirée back on land to help prospective lovebirds to mingle.

Eva Air, Taiwan’s second-largest airline, has partnered with dating company Mobius to help those on board the “Love is in the Air” flights to to meet someone. The flights will last for three hours, departing from Taoyuan International Airport on Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. The daytime flights fly above the east coast of Taiwan, while the evening one will fly over the western shoreline of the island, including Taipei.

According to Mobius, there will be 32 singletons on the flight, divided between men and women. While it isn't specified that this is an event aimed at heterosexuals, the seating arrangements will see each person seated beside someone of the opposite gender on board the plane. What is specified is that men must be aged between 28 and 38 while women must be between 24 and 35. They must also be residents of Taiwan and hold a college degree or higher.

Those on the daytime Christmas Day flight will enjoy afternoon tea upon landing, while the New Year's Eve flyers will be treated to a romantic dinner before taking to the skies. The New Year's Day flight commences early in the morning so those on board will be given breakfast on dry land. They will also get Häagen-Dazs ice cream and festive desserts. As a COVID-19 protocol, passengers are encouraged to keep their masks on when not eating or drinking. Places on the flights are available for NT$8388 ($295) and further information is available here.

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