New Airline Starlux Aims to Take You to Taiwan in Luxurious Affordability

For travelers eager to journey from the United States to Taiwan, there's a new—and rather upscale—option available, featuring first- and business-class seats equipped with massagers, gourmet in-flight menus by renowned chefs, and satellite Wi-Fi. Taiwanese airline Starlux recently launched long-haul flights between Taipei and Los Angeles, marking its first route outside Asia since starting operations in 2020.

Starlux is “a luxury carrier emerging in a landscape of budget airlines,” said Simon Liu, chief strategy officer of Starlux, to Dinogo. “Our philosophy is that luxury should be accessible, not exclusive.”

Liu noted that various thoughtful details throughout the aircraft aim to enhance the passenger experience. For example, the airline collaborated with Taiwanese fragrance company P.Seven to develop a unique scent called “Home in the Air” for the cabins, and even offers branded toilet paper in the restrooms. Starlux also worked with smooth jazz guitarist Peter White to craft a soothing soundtrack for a tranquil in-flight atmosphere.

What are Starlux planes like?

Starlux operates all its flights using Airbus aircraft, boasting a fleet of 20 planes. The transpacific route features Airbus A350-900s, arranged with four different classes of service. Here’s the breakdown:

First Class

The front section of the aircraft features four exclusive first-class suites, equipped with seats that offer in-chair massagers, a “Zero-G” position designed to promote a neutral body posture—originally developed by NASA—and full reclining capability. Additionally, passengers can enjoy USB-C charging ports, a wireless charging pad, and a private mini-bar.

Business Class

The business class area includes 26 lie-flat seats, each featuring in-chair massagers and the “Zero-G” positioning. USB-C charging and a wireless charging pad are also provided. The seating is arranged in a reverse herringbone configuration, allowing direct access to the aisle for every seat.

Premium Economy Class

There are 36 reclining premium economy seats featuring a leg rest and footrest bar.

Economy Class

The economy section comprises the remaining 240 seats, equipped with USB ports and a universal power outlet.

The aircraft interiors, adorned with earth tones and matte gold accents, were crafted by BMW. Each seat includes a six-way adjustable leather headrest and personal entertainment screens with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing passengers to connect their own wireless headphones for watching movies and shows. In-flight Wi-Fi powered by Inmarsat GX Aviation is complimentary for first and business class travelers, while economy and premium economy passengers can purchase access. The in-flight menu, curated by chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants, features Taiwanese dishes across all classes, with the airline’s signature dish being yakiniku donburi, a barbecue-style beef bowl.

What is the cost of flying with Starlux?

The Starlux website shows that one-way airfares in June are surprisingly more affordable than the luxurious in-flight amenities might imply. Economy fares from L.A. to Taipei begin at just under $900, with premium economy starting at $1,212, business class at $2,900, and first class priced at $9,641. These rates are fairly consistent with those offered by EVA Air, another Taiwan-based airline that provides direct flights from Los Angeles to Taipei, although EVA does not offer a first class.

Starlux Collaborates with Alaska Airlines

Alongside the launch of its inaugural transpacific flight, Starlux announced a new loyalty partnership with Alaska Airlines, simplifying connections to the cities served by both airlines. Alaska Airlines operates approximately 1,200 flights daily, linking over 115 destinations across the United States, Mexico, Canada, Costa Rica, and Belize. Currently, Starlux is not a member of any major airline alliance and has no partnerships with other domestic airlines besides Alaska Airlines.

Following the partnership announcement, Alaska revealed the one-way redemption rates that will take effect this summer. For a limited time, travelers can redeem 20,000 Alaska Mileage Plan miles for economy flights on Starlux, 40,000 miles for premium economy, and 60,000 miles for business class.

Where does Starlux operate flights?

Starlux currently services destinations across Southeast Asia, including:

• Macau
• Bangkok, Thailand
• Penang and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• Singapore
• Da Nang, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
• Cebu and Manila, Philippines
• Sapporo, Sendai, Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, and Okinawa, Japan

From now until the end of May, Starlux will provide round-trip flights between Los Angeles and Taipei five days a week (on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays). Starting in June, flights will be available daily between the two cities. The airline also plans to expand its service to San Francisco in December 2023.