STARLUX Airlines of Taiwan has taken delivery of its first Airbus A350-1000, becoming the 11th operator worldwide of the largest variant in the A350 family. The aircraft was handed over in Toulouse on 6 January 2026 and is the first of 18 A350-1000s on order for the airline.
The new aircraft will join STARLUX’s existing fleet of 10 A350-900s, which are currently deployed on premier long-haul services from Taipei to destinations in Europe and North America, as well as selected routes within the Asia-Pacific region. With the arrival of the A350-1000, the airline adds increased capacity and capability to its long-haul operations, positioning the type as its new flagship.
To mark the introduction of the A350-1000, STARLUX has unveiled a distinctive livery that blends the carrier’s established visual identity with a carbon-fibre motif. The design is intended to reflect both innovation and the advanced composite materials that form a key part of the aircraft’s structure. A prominent ‘1000’ on the fuselage underscores the aircraft’s status as the largest in-production Airbus model.
STARLUX operates an all-Airbus fleet, comprising the A321neo, A330-900 and A350-900. The A350-1000 is designed to integrate seamlessly into this fleet, supporting the airline’s growth in the long-haul segment. In addition to its passenger aircraft, STARLUX has placed orders for 10 A350F freighters as part of its plans to develop a future cargo network.
The A350 is Airbus’s most modern widebody aircraft and has established new benchmarks in intercontinental travel. Its clean-sheet design incorporates advanced aerodynamics, state-of-the-art technologies and new generation engines, alongside extensive use of lightweight materials. Together, these features deliver a 25 per cent improvement in fuel burn, operating costs and carbon dioxide emissions compared with previous generation competitor aircraft.
Passenger comfort is a central element of the A350 programme, with the aircraft featuring the Airspace cabin, offering wide seats, high ceilings and ambient lighting designed to enhance the long-haul travel experience.
As with all Airbus aircraft, the A350 is already capable of operating with up to 50 per cent Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with Airbus targeting 100 per cent SAF capability across its aircraft portfolio by 2030.
By the end of November 2025, the A350 family had secured nearly 1,500 orders from 66 customers worldwide, underlining its strong position in the global widebody market.
SOURCE AND IMAGE: AIRBUS
