China Airlines the National airline of Taiwan was founded in 1959 by a group of retired ROC pilots. Its first years were difficult. The war in Southeast Asia allowed the airline to receive lucrative if not dangerous charter contracts. These allowed the airline to expand. Since the late 60's the airline has profitably expanded. The airlines current fleet includes 15 Boeing 747's , 12 737's as well as 12 Airbus A300's and 7 A 340's