STARLUX Takes Delivery Of First Airbus A350-1000

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 7 (Bernama) -- Taiwan-based luxury carrier, STARLUX Airlines marked a major transcontinental milestone with the delivery of its first Airbus A350-1000 wide-body aircraft, becoming the first Taiwanese airline to operate the aircraft type.

The aircraft, registration B-58551, was officially handed over at Airbus’s Toulouse headquarters and flown nonstop to Taipei by STARLUX Chairman K.W. Chang. Upon arrival at Taoyuan International Airport, the aircraft was greeted with a ceremonial water salute.

STARLUX Chief Executive Officer, Glenn Chai said the delivery of the first A350-1000 marked a new era in the airline’s long-haul capabilities, as the aircraft can reach the United States (US) East Coast while delivering exceptional fuel efficiency and superior passenger comfort.

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“This allows us to extend our signature service from Taipei to even more destinations across North America and Europe,” he said in a statement.

The aircraft introduces a refreshed STARLUX livery inspired by its extensive use of advanced composite materials, with more than 50 per cent of the airframe built from carbon-fibre-reinforced composites. A bold “1000” marking along the fuselage highlights its status as the largest A350 variant and the airline’s new long-haul flagship.

Configured with four cabin classes – First Class, Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy – the A350-1000 offers 350 seats designed for long-distance comfort. Its range of up to 9,700 miles (15,600 kilometres) will support STARLUX’s expansion into North American and European markets.

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Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, the aircraft delivers a 25 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency and carbon emissions compared with previous-generation planes, while providing one of the quietest and most spacious cabins in its class.

With this delivery, STARLUX enters the next phase of long-haul expansion, planning to launch its initial European routes in the second half of 2026, with additional aircraft deliveries enabling future services to the US East Coast.

-- BERNAMA