STARLUX inducts first Airbus A350-1000

STARLUX Airlines of Taiwan has taken delivery of its first of 18 A350-1000s, becoming the 11th global operator of the largest version of the A350. The new A350-1000 will join a fleet of 10 A350-900s already in service with the airline, deployed on premier long-haul services from Taipei to Europe and North America, as well as selected destinations within the Asia-Pacific region. To mark the arrival of its newest fleet member, STARLUX has unveiled a striking livery that reflects both innovation and identity. The design integrates the airline’s signature visual elements with a carbon-fibre motif, representing the advanced composite materials integral to the aircraft’s construction. The prominent ‘1000’ emblazoned on the fuselage highlights the aircraft’s designation as the largest in-production Airbus model, now serving as the airline’s new flagship. STARLUX currently operates an all-Airbus fleet comprising the A321neo, the A330-900, and the A350-900 aircraft. The new A350-1000 will seamlessly complement the airline’s existing fleet. Furthermore, the airline has ordered 10 A350F freighters to develop its future cargo network. The A350 is the world’s most modern widebody aircraft and has set new standards for intercontinental travel. The A350’s all-new design includes state-of-the-art technologies and aerodynamics delivering unmatched standards of operational efficiency and passenger comfort. Its new generation engines and use of lightweight materials bring a 25 per cent advantage in fuel burn, operating costs and carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions, compared to previous generation competitor aircraft. The A350 is equipped with a comfortable and spacious Airspace cabin, wide seats, high ceilings and alluring ambient lighting. As with all Airbus aircraft, the A350 aircraft is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030. At the end of November 2025, the A350 had won nearly 1,500 orders from 66 customers worldwide. Avion Express Brasil adds A320 aircraft to fleet Avion Express Brasil, the Brazilian ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) airline, starts the year on a high note, expanding its fleet to two Airbus A320 family aircraft. The second aircraft was registered in Brazil during December 2025. This growth strengthens the company’s operational capacity and marks a significant milestone as it starts to operate its first long-term ACMI project. “Expanding our fleet was part of our plan from the beginning of the year, and I am very proud to share that we added a second aircraft by the end of our first year in the market. Our goal is to grow the fleet to five aircraft in 2026. A growing fleet demonstrates our credibility and serious commitment to the Brazilian market,” says Esteban Jauregui Lorda, CEO of Avion Express Brasil. “Brazil’s aviation sector continues to experience robust growth, driven by rising passenger demand and the need for flexible capacity solutions, and we are fully prepared to meet that demand.” The newly added aircraft was transferred from Avion Express’s European AOCs and is now fully registered under the Brazilian AOC, further reinforcing Avion Express Brasil’s commitment to the local market. The company has also signed its first long-term ACMI contract with Argentine carrier Flybondi, providing a strong start to its ACMI operations in Latin America. “Since obtaining our Brazilian AOC in February 2025, Avion Express Brasil has steadily developed its local operations, assembling fully Brazilian crew and establishing the infrastructure to support ACMI and charter services. This expansion reflects the growing recognition of ACMI in Brazil and Latin America as a flexible, cost-efficient solution for airlines managing seasonal demand and fleet planning,” adds Lorda. For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Matt Driskill at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Head of Sales Sally Passey at [email protected]