TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Starlux Airlines' first Airsorayama Silver art-themed aircraft made its maiden flight to Phoenix on Tuesday, marking the aircraft's first long-haul service.
The Airbus A350-1000-operated flight marked the North American debut of the carrier's collaboration with Japanese artist Hajime Sorayama, per the Commercial Times. The airline said the aircraft will begin regular service on routes to Phoenix, Tokyo, and Prague starting Oct. 1.
To mark the aircraft's debut in Phoenix, Starlux held a launch event at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said the arrival of the Airsorayama Silver aircraft builds on the steady performance of the Taipei-Phoenix route since its launch six months ago and further strengthens ties between the two cities.
Starlux Chief Strategy Officer Simon Liu (劉允富) presented Gallego with commemorative gold and silver model aircraft during the ceremony, the Commercial Times reported. The airline said the aircraft features a custom exterior livery and themed cabin experience.
In response to growing passenger and cargo demand driven by the technology sector, the airline plans to add a Monday flight from Dec. 7 to Jan. 25, 2027, in addition to its existing Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday services, a total of five flights per week, per CNA.
Starlux currently operates five North American routes: Los Angeles, Ontario, San Francisco, Seattle, and Phoenix. The airline said its fleet is expected to have 43 aircraft by the end of the year following the delivery of additional planes.
