Taiwan-based STARLUX Airlines has placed a firm order for five all-new A350F freighters and three more A330neo widebody aircraft to expand global operations. The agreement was signed by KW Chang, Chairman, STARLUX Airlines and Christian Scherer, CEO, Commercial Aircraft business, Airbus, said an official release from Airbus. “STARLUX Airlines has continuously nurtured the cargo market since its inception, capitalizing on the strategic advantages offered by Taiwan’s geographical location,” says Glenn Chai, CEO, STARLUX. “With this order, STARLUX will become the first Taiwanese airline to operate the next-generation A350F widebody freighter. In an era of climate change, the A350F has unbeatable efficiency in terms of fuel burn, CO2 emissions and economics, offering significant energy-saving and carbon reduction benefits. It not only meets customer requirements for carbon reduction but also aligns with STARLUX’s ESG plan to achieve zero emissions by 2050. Additionally, the three new A330neos will strengthen our fleet advantage and provide greater flexibility for passenger operations.” Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, EVP, Sales, Commercial Aircraft, Airbus adds, “We love working with STARLUX Airlines in building and strengthening its fleet. Operating both the latest generation Airbus single aisle and widebody aircraft brings the airline enormous benefits. It significantly reduces fuel consumption and carbon emission and offers unrivalled levels of technical commonality, benefits in maintenance and training. The A350F, the only new generation large freighter, will fit seamlessly into this all-Airbus fleet and enable STARLUX Airlines to compete effectively with the leading players in key cargo markets.”