Starlux Airlines Will Launch Sydney to Taipei Flights
The carrier plans to establish a new direct connection between the two cities in 2027.
Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Business Travel
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Starlux Airlines will begin direct flights between Sydney and Taipei in 2027. The service will also include an onward route from Sydney to Auckland.
Why it matters
The new route aims to capture growing demand for travel between Australia and Taiwan, which saw passenger numbers increase by 18 percent in 2025.
Nearly 194,000 passengers traveled between Sydney and Taiwan in 2025, reflecting 18 percent growth. Starlux Airlines plans to serve this market using A330neo and A350 aircraft featuring business class flat beds.
The players
Starlux Airlines
An airline based in Taiwan that launched in 2020 and recently expanded into the European market.
China Airlines
A Taiwan-based carrier that currently holds the only direct air connection between Australia and Taiwan.
The details
Starlux Airlines is currently the only major competitor to China Airlines on the direct route between Australia and Taiwan. The carrier, which launched in 2020, also plans to offer an onward connection to Auckland from Sydney.
Timeline
Starlux Airlines launched its operations in 2020.
Passenger numbers between Taiwan and Sydney grew by 18 percent in 2025.
The airline launched its first European route to Prague in August 2026.
Starlux was named the world's cleanest airline in 2026.
Direct flights between Sydney and Taipei will begin in 2027.
Travel Outlook
Starlux Airlines is leveraging its recognition at the 2026 Skytrax World Airline Awards to differentiate itself in the competitive Australia-Taiwan travel corridor. The expansion follows a broader industry trend of carriers increasing capacity on Pacific routes to meet rising demand.
Business travelers flying between Sydney and Taipei will gain a new direct option starting in 2027 that features business class amenities like fully-flat beds. Passengers should monitor the airline's website for specific scheduling and ticket availability updates closer to the launch.
The takeaway
The addition of a second carrier on the Sydney-Taipei route suggests increasing competition for regional business travelers. Passengers looking to book should compare the cabin offerings on the A330neo and A350 aircraft to ensure the desired level of comfort for their journey.
Further reading
Learn more about the evolving landscape of Business Travel.
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