Starlux Airlines is confronting a dual challenge of delayed Airbus deliveries and declining passenger demand on its U.S. routes—issues CEO Glenn Chai attributes to ongoing economic uncertainty stemming from tariffs introduced during the Trump administration.
In an interview with Bloomberg, Chai confirmed that Airbus has reduced its delivery outlook for the carrier this year. Originally expecting nine new aircraft, Starlux now anticipates receiving only five: one A350-1000 and two A330-900neos in the coming months, in addition to two A350-900s already delivered. The shortfall significantly impacts the airline’s growth plans, with projected capacity increases scaled back from 50% to between 20% and 30%.
Chai cited ongoing global supply chain disruptions as the root cause, noting that while some Airbus suppliers have improved performance, persistent issues remain—particularly with engines and certain structural components. Airbus is now reportedly advising customers of delays as long as six months for aircraft slated for delivery as late as 2027 or 2028.
Starlux currently has 27 Airbus aircraft on order: six A321-200NXs, three A330-900neos, eight A350-1000s, and ten A350 freighters. These will nearly double the airline’s existing fleet of 28 aircraft, which includes thirteen A321-200NXs, five A330-900neos, and ten A350-900s.
The airline’s long-haul ambitions center on four U.S. destinations: Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Ontario, California. But Chai said demand on these routes has softened. “This summer, we see the impact already,” he said, pointing to traveler hesitancy due to broader concerns about economic stability. “People are still booking but they postpone to the fourth quarter.”
Despite the current downturn, Chai expressed optimism that passenger sentiment will recover by year-end, as geopolitical and trade-related uncertainties subside.
Starlux presently operates daily flights to Seattle and San Francisco, 11 weekly flights to Los Angeles, and four to Ontario. All U.S. services are flown using A350-900 aircraft, offering a combined total of 17,136 weekly seats between Taiwan and the United States.
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