Starlux Inaugurates Nonstop Flights Between Taipei and Seattle

Starlux has just introduced its inaugural nonstop flight between Taipei and Seattle, establishing a direct link to the primary hub of its global partner, Alaska Airlines. This exciting development marks the third transpacific service the high-end carrier offers, connecting Taiwan with the United States.

The first Starlux flight from Taipei (TPE) to Seattle-Tacoma (SEA) touched down at Alaska’s main hub on a Friday afternoon, where a warm welcome celebration was held, with officials from Starlux, Alaska Airlines, and the Port of Seattle in attendance.

Photo: Courtesy of Starlux Airlines Japan @starluxjapan

Operating the new route with its cutting-edge Airbus A350 aircraft, Starlux offers a total seating capacity of 306 passengers spread across four distinct cabin classes. These include four first class seats, 26 business class seats, 36 premium economy seats, and the remaining 240 seats in economy class.

Launched in 2018, Starlux has grown a reputation as a premium airline offering travelers exemplary service and comfort on flights across the Asia-Pacific region. Examples of its high-end, luxury service include in-cabin aromatherapy, meals curated by Michelin-starred restaurant partners, sliding privacy doors, full-flat seats, and Zero-G Mode for first and business-class passengers.

Photo: Courtesy of Starlux Airlines

Starlux’s new service will also give travelers in the Seattle area greater access to more than 20 far-flung destinations across Asia. Via Taipei, passengers take advantage of seamless connecting flights to destinations in Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Japan, Singapore, Macau, and Hong Kong.

“Starlux offers an industry-leading product with great onboard service and access to a range of bucket list destinations across Asia,” said Brett Carlin, Vice President of Loyalty, Alliances, and Sales at Alaska Airlines.

Photo: Courtesy of Starlux Airlines

“With Starlux’s arrival in Seattle, we’ll have 13 of our global partners now serving our hometown hub where we have more daily flights and destinations than any other carrier on the West Coast.”

The Taiwanese carrier operated its first transpacific flights to the U.S. in April 2023 with the launch of its service from Taipei to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), followed by the launch of flights to San Francisco International Airport (SFO) in December of that year.

Now, with the inauguration of its Seattle service, Starlux offers nonstop service to three key destinations on the West Coast.

“Starlux is proud to arrive at SEA as they celebrate their 75th year,” said Glenn Chai, CEO of Starlux Airlines. “Seattle is not just our latest destination, it’s a pivotal milestone in our U.S. expansion strategy.

Photo: Sea-Tac Airport. Courtesy of The Port of Seattle.

“For the first time, thanks to our esteemed partner Alaska Airlines, we can connect passengers from over 100 U.S. cities via the West Coast to Asia Pacific. We’re thrilled to bridge continents, expand travel options, and deliver exceptional service to our customers.”

Port of Seattle Commissioner Sam Cho added: “We’re thrilled to welcome Starlux to SEA as our new partner airline. This summer has been bustling with travel, and the growing interest in connecting to Taipei reflects the vibrant global ties we cherish.

“We’re committed to nurturing these connections, ensuring that our communities and cultures continue to benefit from the rich exchange that being the gateway to Asia brings to the Pacific Northwest.”

The new service is scheduled to operate three times per week, departing Seattle on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.