STARLUX AIRLINES

STARLUX Airlines has quickly distinguished itself as a rising star in the aviation industry, positioning itself as a premium boutique carrier dedicated to bringing luxury and meticulous detail back to air travel. Founded with a vision to provide an exquisite journey that engages all five senses, the airline combines state-of-the-art technology with warm, attentive hospitality. Whether traveling for business or leisure, passengers are invited to experience a "home in the air" atmosphere where comfort and style are paramount.

Since its inaugural flight in 2020, STARLUX has focused on building a robust network centered around its hub in Taipei. The airline seamlessly connects travelers to major Asian metropolises and key long-haul destinations. Its route map features frequent connections to Japan, including popular cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, Nagoya, Sapporo, and the tropical islands of Okinawa. Beyond Japan, the carrier serves vital regional hubs such as Hong Kong, Macau, Bangkok, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur.

Expanding its global footprint, STARLUX also operates transpacific routes to the United States, offering service to Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle. In Southeast Asia, the airline has a strong presence in Vietnam, flying to both Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, as well as to Cebu City in the Philippines. This strategic expansion caters to both corporate travelers and tourists seeking high-quality connections across the Pacific and Asia.

The airline prides itself on a modern and efficient fleet consisting entirely of Airbus aircraft, including the A321neo, A330neo, and the advanced A350-900. These aircraft are designed with eco-efficiency and passenger comfort in mind, featuring reduced noise levels and superior cabin pressure. Safety is a core value for the company, underpinned by rigorous training programs and the adoption of the latest aviation safety systems, ensuring a secure journey for every passenger.

Onboard, STARLUX is known for its exceptional service standards. The cabin experience is curated to feel exclusive, often featuring signature fragrances, high-quality dining partnerships, and ergonomic seating in all classes. The airline’s mission is to make flying an enjoyable part of the travel experience rather than a mere necessity, earning it a growing reputation for excellence and innovation in the international market.

For travelers in the United Arab Emirates, connecting with STARLUX Airlines is primarily handled through their global digital channels and international customer service center. As the airline does not currently have a dedicated local office in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, passengers are encouraged to use the official website or mobile app for the most efficient service regarding bookings and itinerary management.

If your journey involves a flight operated by a partner airline (such as a codeshare connection from Abu Dhabi), it is advisable to also check with the operating carrier for immediate local assistance. Below is the structured contact information for STARLUX Airlines.

Official Website

• Global English Site: www.starlux-airlines.com/en-US

Contact Information

• Global Customer Service Hotline: +886-2-2791-1199
  • Note: This is an international number based in Taiwan. Standard international calling rates from the UAE will apply.
  • Hours: Daily, 09:00 – 18:00 (Taiwan Time, GMT+8).
• Online Support:
  • Feedback & Inquiries: Use the "Contact Us" form on the official website for ticket changes, refunds, or general questions.
• Mobile App:
  • Name: STARLUX
  • Download: Available on iOS and Android platforms for managing bookings and mobile check-in.

Social Media

• Facebook: STARLUX Airlines
• Instagram: @starluxairlines
• Twitter (X): @starluxairlines

Local Offices in United Arab Emirates

• Physical Office: Currently, there is no direct STARLUX Airlines office or counter in the UAE.
• Airport Desk: For flights departing from UAE airports on partner airlines (interline/codeshare), please visit the check-in counters of the operating carrier for ground support.

Emergency & Support

• Flight Disruptions: In case of urgent schedule changes, checking the "Flight Status" on the official website or app is the fastest way to get updates.
• Lost Baggage: For baggage issues on flights arriving in Taipei, report directly to the STARLUX baggage service counter at the arrival airport. For issues occurring in the UAE on connecting flights, file a report with the operating airline at the destination.

Travelers flying with STARLUX Airlines can expect a baggage policy that balances convenience with the airline's premium service standards. Whether you are heading to a business meeting or a vacation, understanding the allowances for your specific ticket class ensures a smooth check-in experience at the airport. The airline generally applies a piece-concept policy for most of its international routes, simplifying the process for passengers connecting through its hub in Taipei.

Cabin Baggage

For items you wish to keep with you during the flight, STARLUX offers a cabin baggage allowance designed to keep essentials close at hand. While specific weight limits may vary slightly by aircraft type, the general guidelines are:

• Economy Class: Passengers are typically allowed one carry-on bag (usually up to 7kg) plus one personal item, such as a laptop bag, handbag, or small backpack.
• Business & First Class: Travelers in premium cabins often enjoy an enhanced allowance, permitting heavier or additional carry-on items to accommodate extra travel necessities.

Checked Baggage

The checked baggage allowance is determined by your route and fare class. STARLUX predominantly uses a Piece System, which is particularly beneficial for long-haul travel. It is highly recommended to check the specific details printed on your e-ticket confirmation.

• Transpacific Routes: For flights to destinations in the United States, such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Seattle, the allowance typically includes two pieces of baggage, with weight limits depending on the class of service (e.g., 23kg per bag for Economy).
• Regional Asian Routes: For flights within Asia, including trips to Tokyo, Ho Chi Minh City, or Bangkok, allowances are also generous, varying between tiered fare bundles (e.g., Saving, Basic, Smart, Up).

Connecting from the UAE

Since STARLUX does not operate direct flights from the United Arab Emirates, passengers starting their journey from Dubai or Abu Dhabi will likely travel on a partner airline before connecting to the STARLUX network. In these cases, the Most Significant Carrier (MSC) rule usually applies regarding baggage allowances. It is crucial to verify whether the baggage policy of the partner airline or STARLUX applies to your checked luggage for the entire journey.

Special Baggage & Excess Fees

For those traveling with special items such as golf clubs, surfboards, or musical instruments, STARLUX provides specific handling procedures. These items generally count towards your free baggage allowance if they fall within size and weight restrictions. If your luggage exceeds the permitted weight or number of pieces, excess baggage fees will apply. These can be paid at the airport, but purchasing additional allowance online in advance is often more cost-effective.

STARLUX Airlines recognizes that pets are cherished family members and strives to accommodate them safely. However, to ensure the comfort and safety of all passengers, pets are not permitted in the passenger cabin. Domesticated dogs and cats must travel as checked baggage in the temperature-controlled cargo hold. The only exception to this rule is for trained service animals assisting passengers with disabilities.

Transport Options

Checked Baggage (AVIH)

Your pet can travel on the same flight as you in the aircraft's cargo hold, which is pressurized and temperature-controlled to ensure their well-being.

• Container Requirements: Pets must be transported in a rigid, leak-proof, and IATA-compliant crate (plastic or metal) with adequate ventilation. Soft-sided carriers or bags are not permitted.
• Comfort Standards: The container must be spacious enough for the animal to stand up, turn around, and lie down naturally without restriction.
• Weight Limits: The total weight of the animal and the crate generally must not exceed 50 kg to travel as checked baggage.
• Booking: You must contact the STARLUX Customer Service Center at least 48 hours before departure to reserve space, as capacity is limited.

Cargo Transport

For very large animals exceeding the checked baggage weight limit, or for flights to destinations with specific manifest cargo regulations, pets must be transported via STARLUX Cargo. This requires a separate booking process, often arranged through a specialized freight forwarder.

Service Animals (SVAN)

Trained Service Animals are the only animals permitted in the cabin. They travel free of charge to assist passengers with disabilities. Emotional support animals (ESAs) are not classified as service animals under STARLUX policy and must travel as checked baggage.

Required Documentation

To ensure a smooth journey, ensure you have the following documents prepared:

• Veterinary Passport & Health Certificate: A valid certificate issued by a veterinarian, typically required within 7–10 days of travel.
• Vaccination Records: Proof of valid rabies vaccination and other routine shots.
• Import/Export Permits: Specific forms required by the destination country (e.g., strict quarantine permits for Taipei or Japan).
• Microchip: An ISO-compliant microchip is usually required for identification.

Service Costs

Pets transported as checked baggage are charged as Excess Baggage. Unlike standard luggage, they do not fall under the free baggage allowance. STARLUX applies a fixed-rate fee per crate based on the route.

• Asian Routes: The charge is approximately $300 USD per crate (up to 32kg). This applies to regional flights, such as those to Tokyo or Bangkok.
• Transpacific Routes: The charge is approximately $400 USD per crate (up to 32kg). This applies to long-haul flights, such as to Los Angeles or San Francisco.
• Heavier Crates: Animals and crates weighing between 32kg and 50kg will incur higher charges.

Note: Prices are subject to change and may vary based on currency exchange rates. Passengers are strongly advised to check the "Excess Baggage Charge" table on the official STARLUX website for the most current fees.

Restrictions

• Breed Restrictions: Snub-nosed (brachycephalic) dogs and cats (e.g., Bulldogs, Pugs, Persian cats) are often restricted or banned from transport due to respiratory risks, especially during hotter months.
• Aggressive Breeds: Certain aggressive dog breeds (e.g., Pit Bull Terriers, Tosa) are strictly prohibited.
• Temperature Restrictions: To protect your pet, transport may be refused if ground temperatures at departure or arrival airports are extreme (typically below -12°C or above 29°C).

Preparation Tips

• Acclimatization: Get your pet used to their crate weeks before travel to reduce stress.
• Hydration: Secure an empty water dish inside the crate that can be filled from the outside if necessary, or provide ice cubes to prevent spills.
• Feeding: Feed a light meal about 4 hours before the flight; avoid feeding right before departure to prevent nausea.

Important: Pet travel regulations are strict and subject to change. You must contact STARLUX Airlines reservations well in advance to confirm availability and verify the specific requirements for your itinerary.

COSMILE Loyalty Program

The loyalty program of STARLUX Airlines is known as COSMILE, designed to elevate the travel experience for frequent flyers through a rewarding and flexible structure. Unlike traditional programs, COSMILE places a strong emphasis on family travel, allowing members to pool their mileage together to reach rewards faster. Whether you are flying for business or planning a family vacation to Taipei, this program ensures that every journey contributes to future benefits.

Membership Tiers

The COSMILE program consists of four distinct tiers, each offering progressively exclusive privileges to enhance comfort and convenience:

• Traveler: The entry-level tier for all new members, offering access to member-exclusive fares and basic mileage accumulation.
• Adventurer: Achieved after frequent travel, this tier provides priority waitlisting for reservations and a dedicated check-in counter.
• Explorer: Offers significant perks such as access to STARLUX VIP lounges, priority baggage handling, and an extra baggage allowance.
• Insighter: The highest elite status, granting top-priority airport services, guaranteed seating on fully booked flights, and fee waivers for rebooking.

Earning Miles

Accumulating miles with COSMILE is straightforward, with multiple avenues to grow your balance for your next trip:

• Flight Activity: Earn miles based on the distance flown and the fare class purchased on all STARLUX operated flights.
• Family Account: A unique feature allowing up to five family members to pool their miles together for faster redemption.
• Co-branded Cards: Earn points on everyday spending through financial partnerships (primarily available in the home market).
• Shopping & Lifestyle: Accumulate extra miles through purchases with select retail and travel partners.

Redeeming Miles

Members can use their accumulated mileage for a variety of valuable travel rewards:

• Award Tickets: Redeem miles for one-way or round-trip tickets to popular destinations like Tokyo or Los Angeles.
• Cabin Upgrades: Use miles to upgrade your seat from Economy to Business or Premium Economy for a more luxurious journey.
• Miles & Cash: Flexible payment option allowing you to offset the cost of a ticket using a combination of miles and money.
• Ticket Transfers: Ability to transfer award tickets or upgrades to registered nominees or family members.

Airline Partnerships

While STARLUX Airlines is not currently a member of a major global alliance like Star Alliance or Oneworld, it has established strategic partnerships:

• Alaska Airlines: STARLUX maintains a partnership with Alaska Airlines, allowing members to earn and redeem miles across their networks.
• Future Expansion: The airline continues to expand its interline and codeshare agreements to offer broader connectivity for travelers.

How to Join

Joining the COSMILE program is free and simple for travelers worldwide:

• Online Registration: Sign up instantly via the official STARLUX Airlines website.
• Mobile App: Download the STARLUX mobile app to register and manage your digital membership card on the go.
• Instant Status: New members immediately receive the Traveler status and can begin earning miles on their very next flight.

STARLUX Airlines approaches air travel with a philosophy that emphasizes the "five senses," aiming to transform every flight into a memorable experience rather than just a commute. By partnering with luxury design firms like BMW Designworks, the airline has created cabins that exude a warm, "Home in the Air" atmosphere across its modern fleet of Airbus A321neo, A330neo, and A350-900 aircraft.

Cabin Classes

STARLUX offers distinct cabin classes tailored to the needs of both regional and long-haul travelers. While configurations vary by aircraft type, the commitment to comfort remains constant.

• First Class: Available exclusively on the A350-900 long-haul fleet (flying to destinations like Los Angeles), these suites offer supreme privacy with sliding doors, a personal wardrobe, and Zero-G seats designed to reduce body pressure.
• Business Class: Featuring lie-flat seats and direct aisle access on wide-body aircraft, Business Class provides a private sanctuary. Passengers enjoy warm earth tones, generous storage, and premium bedding to ensure a restful journey.
• Premium Economy: Located on the A350-900, this class offers dedicated spacious seating with leg rests and footbars, bridging the gap between Business and Economy comfort.
• Economy Class: Far from basic, Economy seats are designed by Recaro with ultra-thin structures to maximize legroom. Every seat features an adjustable leather headrest and a personal entertainment screen.

In-Flight Dining

Dining onboard STARLUX is a culinary journey curated to rival ground-based restaurants. The airline collaborates with renowned chefs and famous Taiwanese dining brands to offer exclusive menus.

Curated Cuisine
Passengers can pre-order meals online to ensure their preferred choice is available. The menu ranges from authentic Asian specialties, such as Yakiniku sets and hearty noodle soups, to contemporary international dishes. On long-haul routes, the service is elevated with multi-course meals presented on elegant tableware.

Signature Beverages
The beverage service includes a selection of fine wines, teas, and pressed juices. A highlight of the Business and First Class experience is the signature cocktail list, featuring drinks crafted by professional mixologists, inspired by the elements of the sky and galaxy.

Entertainment & Connectivity

STARLUX Airlines prides itself on offering one of the most technologically advanced entertainment systems in the sky.

• Personal Screens for All: Every passenger, including those in Economy, enjoys a personal 4K Ultra-HD screen.
• Bluetooth Audio: A standout feature is the ability for passengers in all classes to pair their own personal Bluetooth headphones with the in-flight entertainment system, allowing for a wireless and high-quality audio experience.
• Wi-Fi Service: To keep travelers connected, Wi-Fi is available on most flights. Business and First Class passengers typically receive complimentary access, while Economy passengers can often enjoy free unlimited text messaging on apps like WhatsApp, LINE, and Messenger.

Ground Services

The premium experience begins before takeoff. For eligible passengers traveling through the hub in Taipei, the Galactic Lounge offers a futuristic yet cozy retreat. Departing from the standard buffet style, the lounge provides a fine-dining experience where dishes are prepared to order. With distinct design themes representing "Time" and "Space," the lounge serves as a perfect relaxation point before connecting to regional hotspots like Tokyo or Bangkok.

Destinations

STARLUX Airlines operates a rapidly expanding network centered around its primary hub at Taipei. From this strategic base, the airline connects passengers to key metropolitan areas and leisure destinations across Asia and North America, with a particularly strong presence in Japan, Vietnam, and the United States.

Booking a flight with STARLUX AIRLINES offers a gateway to a premium travel experience, primarily centered around their modern hub in Taipei. To secure the most competitive fares, it is generally advisable to book your tickets 2 to 3 months in advance. Prices often increase as the departure date nears, particularly for popular long-haul routes to destinations like Los Angeles or San Francisco. Travelers planning trips during peak seasons, such as the Lunar New Year or summer holidays, should aim to book even earlier to ensure seat availability.

To find the best value, regularly check the airline's official website for seasonal promotions and subscribe to their newsletter. Flexibility with travel dates can often uncover lower prices. For those frequently flying to major Asian cities like Tokyo or Ho Chi Minh City, keeping an eye on "early bird" specials can result in significant savings.

Save time at the airport by taking advantage of online check-in services. This feature typically opens 48 hours before the scheduled departure, allowing you to confirm your details and bypass long queues at the counters. This is also the perfect time to finalize your seat selection. Whether you prefer a window seat to admire the views landing in Osaka or an aisle seat for convenience on a flight to Bangkok, choosing your spot early helps ensure a comfortable journey.

For a seamless experience, download the STARLUX mobile app. It serves as a convenient travel companion, allowing you to manage bookings, track flight status in real-time, and access mobile boarding passes. Finally, always consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance before you fly. This provides essential protection against unexpected cancellations, luggage delays, or medical emergencies, ensuring peace of mind throughout your trip.

Founding and Vision
The story of STARLUX Airlines began in May 2018, driven by the ambitious vision of its founder, Chang Kuo-wei. A veteran of the aviation industry and former chairman of EVA Air, Chang aimed to create a luxury boutique carrier that would redefine the travel experience in Taiwan. Often referred to as the "Emirates of Taiwan" by media outlets during its inception, the company was established with a clear goal: to position itself not merely as a transportation provider, but as a high-end lifestyle brand. The airline's headquarters were set up in Taipei, serving as the strategic base for its future global network.

Inaugural Launch and Resilience
After rigorous preparation and certification processes, STARLUX officially launched its maiden flights on January 23, 2020. The initial routes connected Taipei to Macau, Da Nang, and Penang. However, the timing of the launch coincided almost exactly with the onset of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the unprecedented challenges facing the entire aviation sector, the young airline demonstrated remarkable resilience. By quickly pivoting to cargo operations and maintaining essential regional connectivity, STARLUX managed to sustain its operations and continue its planned fleet acquisition during a period when many competitors were downsizing.

Fleet Evolution
From the outset, STARLUX committed to a modern, all-Airbus fleet to ensure efficiency and consistency.

• Early Stage: The airline commenced operations with the Airbus A321neo, a narrow-body aircraft configured with a premium cabin that set new standards for regional travel.
• Wide-Body Expansion: To support medium-haul routes to cities like Singapore, Bangkok, and Ho Chi Minh City, the carrier introduced the Airbus A330neo.
• Long-Haul Flagship: The arrival of the Airbus A350-900 marked a significant turning point, enabling the airline to launch transpacific services and offer First Class cabins, further cementing its luxury status.

Strategic Growth and Partnerships
Unlike many legacy carriers that grew through mergers and acquisitions, STARLUX has focused primarily on rapid organic growth and strategic alliances. While it has not acquired other airlines, it has aggressively pursued partnerships to expand its reach. A notable development was its partnership with Alaska Airlines, established to support its entry into the North American market. This cooperation allows passengers seamless connectivity across the United States, complementing STARLUX's own transpacific routes.

Significant Route Launches
The airline's route map has expanded systematically, moving from regional hops to intercontinental journeys.

• Japan Expansion: Following the reopening of borders, STARLUX aggressively expanded into Japan, launching frequent services to Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, and Sapporo to cater to strong tourism demand.
• Transpacific Milestone: In April 2023, the airline achieved a major milestone with its inaugural long-haul flight to Los Angeles. This was quickly followed by routes to San Francisco and Seattle, establishing a solid foothold in the US market.
• Regional Connectivity: The network also grew to include key Southeast Asian hubs such as Kuala Lumpur, Hanoi, and Cebu City, facilitating transit traffic through Taiwan.

Modern Developments
Today, STARLUX continues to innovate by integrating cutting-edge technology and high fashion into its service. The airline introduced signature fragrances for its cabins, uniforms designed by renowned fashion designers, and meals created in collaboration with Michelin-starred restaurants. As it looks to the future, STARLUX plans to continue expanding its fleet and network, with ambitions to join a major global airline alliance and further bridge the connection between Asia and the world.