New flagship joins the luxury carrier’s all-Airbus fleet as Chairman pilots delivery flight, supporting future expansion across North America and Europe
TAIPEI, Taiwan & France STARLUX Airlines today marked a major milestone in its international growth strategy with the delivery of its first Airbus A350-1000 wide-body aircraft, becoming the first Taiwanese airline to operate the aircraft type. The handover took place at Airbus’s headquarters in Toulouse, France, underscoring the airline’s growing presence on the global aviation stage.The aircraft, registered as B-58551, was officially delivered to STARLUX and flown nonstop from Toulouse to Taipei by STARLUX Chairman K.W. Chang, who personally piloted the delivery flight. Upon its early morning arrival at Taoyuan International Airport, the new flagship aircraft was welcomed with a ceremonial water salute, celebrating a defining moment in the airline’s evolution.
The delivery of our first A350-1000 represents the beginning of a new chapter for STARLUX’s long-haul operations,” said Glenn Chai, Chief Executive Officer of STARLUX Airlines. “With its extended range compared to the A350-900, this aircraft enables us to reach the U.S. East Coast while maintaining exceptional fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. It allows us to extend our signature premium service from Taipei to even more destinations across North America and Europe.”
An All-Airbus Strategy Reaches New Heights
STARLUX continues to strengthen its long-haul vision with an all-Airbus fleet, and the A350-1000 now becomes the airline’s flagship for intercontinental routes. Designed for efficiency and comfort, the A350-1000 offers industry-leading range, advanced aerodynamics, and next-generation cabin design.
STARLUX has built an impressive long-haul strategy with an all-Airbus fleet,” said Anand Stanley, President of Airbus Asia-Pacific. “The A350-1000, the long-range leader of the A350 family, takes that strategy to the next level with superior performance, efficiency, and passenger experience. Airbus is proud to celebrate this milestone as STARLUX expands its transcontinental network and brings a new standard of premium travel from Taiwan to the world.”
Distinctive Design and Advanced Technology
The arrival of the A350-1000 also introduces a refreshed exterior identity for STARLUX. While preserving the airline’s refined and understated aesthetic, the updated livery draws inspiration from the aircraft’s extensive use of advanced materials. More than 50 percent of the A350-1000 airframe is constructed from carbon-fiber-reinforced composites, contributing to lower weight, improved efficiency, and enhanced durability. A bold “1000” marking along the fuselage highlights the aircraft’s status as the largest member of the A350 family and STARLUX’s new long-haul flagship.
Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, the A350-1000 delivers approximately 25 percent lower fuel consumption and carbon emissions compared to previous-generation wide-body aircraft. It also offers one of the quietest cabins in its class, along with wider seats, higher ceilings, and improved air quality for long-distance comfort.
Premium Four-Class Cabin for Long-Distance Travel
STARLUX’s A350-1000 is configured with four cabin classes—First Class, Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy—offering a total of 350 seats. Each cabin has been designed to deliver a high-end, consistent passenger experience aligned with the airline’s luxury positioning, particularly on ultra-long-haul routes.
With a maximum range of up to 9,700 miles (15,600 kilometers), the aircraft is ideally suited to support STARLUX’s expansion into key North American and European markets.
Supporting Future Network Expansion
The delivery of the first A350-1000 marks the next phase of STARLUX’s long-haul growth plan. The airline intends to launch its initial European routes in the second half of 2026, with additional aircraft deliveries enabling future nonstop services to destinations on the U.S. East Coast.
As STARLUX continues to build its premium global network, the A350-1000 will play a central role in connecting Taiwan to the world, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to operational excellence, sustainability, and an elevated passenger experience.
About STARLUX Airlines
Founded on the philosophy that luxury should be available to everyone, not just the elite, Taiwan-based STARLUX is a boutique international airline serving a total of 31 destinations from Taiwan to the US, Japan, Macau, Vietnam, Thailand, Philippines, Malaysia, and Singapore. STARLUX passengers traveling between North America and Asia are able to enjoy an easy transfer in Taipei with its five US destinations: Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Ontario, California, and Phoenix. Recognized globally for its excellence, STARLUX has been awarded Skytrax 5-Star Airline status, earned the APEX Five Star Global Airline Awards, and received a 7-Star PLUS Safety Rating from AirlineRatings. STARLUX prioritizes safety and offers unparalleled service with the goal of making flying a truly lux-urious and unforgettable experience.