Taiwan-based Starlux Airlines has taken delivery of its first Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. The jet ferried directly from Toulouse to Taipei Taoyuan on 5 January 2026.
This aircraft joins 10 A350-900s in service for long-haul routes from Taipei to Europe, North America, and Asia-Pacific areas. The airline operates an all-Airbus fleet including A321neo and A330-900 models, with 10 A350F freighters ordered for cargo expansion.
The new A350-1000 features a livery with carbon-fibre motifs and the number 1000 on the fuselage to denote its status as the largest Airbus model. The A350 design incorporates technologies for efficiency and comfort, with new engines and materials reducing fuel burn, costs, and CO2 emissions by 25pc over prior competitors. The cabin offers wide seats, high ceilings, and ambient lighting.
All Airbus aircraft can use up to 50pc sustainable aviation fuel, with a goal of 100pc by 2030.
By November 2025, the A350 had secured nearly 1,500 orders from 66 customers, setting standards for intercontinental travel.
Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines. Starlux holds commitments for 18 A350-1000 in total. The airline’s fleet now comprises 30 Airbus aircraft including A321neo, A330neo, and A350 variants.
Starlux Airlines shared in a written statement “Expanding our international fleet with additional A350-1000s is a significant step toward reinforcing our global presence.”
