On April 27, Starlux Airlines initiated its first transpacific operation, offering non-stop service between Taipei (TPE) and Los Angeles (LAX). This new route expands the airline’s network, which already includes 16 destinations in Asia. Starlux distinguishes itself as the only carrier providing First Class on flights between Taiwan and the United States.
Starlux started flights with its Airbus A350-900s
Flight JX 002 took off from Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) at 16:05 local time aboard an Airbus A350, registration number B-58503, and landed at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) at 10:54 after a nine-hour, 49-minute journey.
U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) statistics revealed by Aviacionline indicate that 811,808 passengers traveled between Los Angeles (LAX) and Taipei (TPE) in 2019, with an occupancy factor of 84%. This makes the route the second largest market between the U.S. and Taiwan. Starlux currently competes on this transpacific route with China Airlines and EVA Air.
Starlux’s Flight Schedule to Los Angeles
- Taipei – Los Angeles: Flight JX 002 TPE 23:40 – LAX 20:30 Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
- Los Angeles – Taipei: Flight JX 001 LAX 00:30 – TPE 05:45+1 Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Route Details
- Daily service will commence from June.
The route is operated using Airbus A350-900 aircraft, featuring a capacity of 306 seats across four classes (4 First Class/26 Business Class/36 Premium Economy/240 Economy). Promotional fares start at USD 1,000 for round-trip tickets.
In the coming months, Starlux aims to expand its transpacific network with service to San Francisco (SFO), the main market between the US and Taiwan. Additionally, the airline expects to add a new U.S. destination within six to eight months.
Alaska Airlines: Starlux’s First Commercial Partner
Starlux recently entered a codeshare agreement with Alaska Airlines. The OneWorld member is the Taiwanese startup’s first commercial partner, allowing Alaska customers to connect from California to all 16 Starlux destinations in Asia, including popular cities such as Bangkok (BKK), Hanoi (HAN), Singapore (SIN), and Manila (MNL).
Mileage Plan members can now earn miles on all Starlux flights, with the option to redeem miles on the Taiwanese airline.
“Our guests will love flying on STARLUX, connecting the West Coast, Taipei and many more amazing places in Asia. We are thrilled to offer our loyal Mileage Plan members another exciting way to see the world” said Nat Pieper, senior vice president of fleet, finance and alliances for Alaska Airlines.
“STARLUX Airlines has marked a successful three years of operating our Asian routes, revolutionizing the aviation industry with our exceptional service and innovative cabin design that have been highly praised by passengers,” said Glenn Chai, CEO of STARLUX Airlines.
