STARLUX Airlines Receives First Airbus A350-1000, Unlocking US East Coast Routes
Key Points
- 1STARLUX Airlines took delivery of its first of 18 Airbus A350-1000s, becoming the first Taiwanese operator of the type.
- 2The A350-1000's extended range unlocks new long-haul routes to the U.S. East Coast and Europe, starting in the second half of 2026.
- 3The aircraft is a key part of the Airbus A350 program, which aims to return to a production rate of 10 aircraft per month in 2026.
- 4The A350-1000 offers a 25% reduction in fuel burn and CO2 emissions compared to older aircraft.
Taiwan-based STARLUX Airlines accepted its first Airbus A350-1000 widebody aircraft. The new jet arrived at Taipei Taoyuan International Airport (TPE). This delivery makes STARLUX the 11th global operator of the A350-1000. It is also the first Taiwanese carrier to fly this aircraft type. The A350-1000 joins the airline's existing all-Airbus fleet.
Fleet Expansion and New Capabilities
STARLUX currently operates 10 A350-900 aircraft. The A350-1000 is the largest plane in the carrier's fleet. The airline has a total of 18 A350-1000s on order. This new aircraft has a four-cabin layout with 350 seats. This configuration is 44 seats more than their A350-900s. The A350-1000 offers an extended range capability. This will power the airline's long-haul expansion strategy.
STARLUX CEO Glenn Chai confirmed the aircraft's importance. He stated the extended range can reach the U.S. East Coast. The airline plans to start its first European flights in the second half of 2026. Additional U.S. markets will launch as more A350s arrive. The airline already serves several U.S. West Coast destinations.
Boosting the A350 Program
The delivery of the A350-1000 supports the overall Airbus A350 program. Airbus aims to restore A350 production to 10 aircraft per month in 2026. This reflects a strong recovery in the widebody market. The A350 family has nearly 1,500 orders from 66 customers worldwide. This highlights solid demand for the modern widebody aircraft.
Efficiency and Sustainability
The A350-1000 is powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines. It is highly valued for its operational efficiency. The aircraft delivers a 25% reduction in fuel burn and CO2 emissions. This is compared to previous-generation jets. The A350 is also capable of operating with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). This aligns with industry goals for reduced environmental impact. Organizations like IATA stress the need for fleet modernization. This is key for achieving long-term sustainability targets.
This delivery marks a significant step for the Taiwanese carrier. It strengthens STARLUX's position in the competitive transpacific market. Passengers will benefit from the A350's spacious Airspace cabin. The aircraft serves as the airline's new flagship. Find more commercial aviation news on flying.flights.
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