Starlux Airlines, based in Taiwan, has made a significant move to expand its fleet by placing a firm order for five state-of-the-art A350F freighters and an additional three A330neo widebody aircraft. This development came to light during the signing of the agreement at the Singapore Airshow with the attendance of KW Chang, Chairman of Starlux Airlines, and Christian Scherer, CEO of the Commercial Aircraft business of Airbus.
Glenn Chai, CEO of Starlux Airlines, shared insights into the company’s cargo market strategy. “Starlux Airlines has continuously nurtured the cargo market since its inception, capitalising on the strategic advantages offered by Taiwan’s geographical location,” he said. Chai also highlighted the significance of incorporating the A350F freighters into their fleet. “With this order, Starlux will become the first Taiwanese airline to operate the next-generation A350F widebody freighter.”
The CEO emphasized the aircraft’s efficiency and its alignment with the airline’s environmental goals. “In an era of climate change, the A350F has unbeatable efficiency in terms of fuel burn, CO2 emissions, and economics, offering significant energy-saving and carbon reduction benefits,” Chai elaborated. “It not only meets customer requirements for carbon reduction but also aligns with Starlux’s ESG plan to achieve zero emissions by 2050.”
The acquisition of three new A330neos was also described as a move to strengthen the airline’s fleet and enhance flexibility in passenger operations.
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales, Commercial Aircraft, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration with Starlux Airlines. He remarked, “Operating both the latest generation Airbus single-aisle and widebody aircraft brings the airline enormous benefits.” He further added, “The A350F, the only new generation large freighter, will fit seamlessly into this all-Airbus fleet and enable Starlux Airlines to compete effectively with the leading players in key cargo markets.”
Starlux Airlines, which already operates an all-Airbus passenger fleet including the A350-900, A330neo, and A321neo, plans to deploy the A350F for Starlux Cargo on critical cargo routes around the world. The A350F is notable for its ability to carry up to 111 tonnes and fly up to 4,700 nautical miles at a significantly lower cost than any other freighter available today.
Furthermore, the aircraft boasts the largest main deck cargo door in the industry, a lighter take-off weight due to the use of advanced materials, and compliance with upcoming ICAO CO2 emissions standards.
The additional A330neo aircraft will enable Starlux Airlines to continue building one of the most modern and efficient passenger fleets in the region, providing a two-class cabin setup for heightened in-flight comfort.
The Asia-Pacific region has shown a strong preference for Airbus widebody aircraft, with nearly 900 currently in service and a further 190 slated for delivery. By the end of January, the A350 Family had garnered over 1,200 orders from 57 customers worldwide, including 50 for the A350F from nine leading cargo airlines, underscoring the model’s appeal in the competitive aviation market.
