Taiwan-based premium airline STARLUX Airlines has announced a strategic codeshare agreement with Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Airways, aimed at significantly expanding connectivity across both carriers’ global networks. Signed during the 81st International Air Transport Association (IATA) Annual General Meeting in New Delhi, the partnership represents a major milestone in STARLUX’s international growth plans and offers travelers enhanced access to Europe via Etihad’s hub in the Middle East.
As part of the agreement, STARLUX passengers will soon be able to book codeshare flights operated by Etihad Airways directly through STARLUX’s website and sales channels. This will allow seamless travel from Taipei to various European cities—including Prague, Madrid, and Barcelona—via Abu Dhabi. Conversely, Etihad passengers will gain streamlined access to STARLUX’s Asia-Pacific destinations, with smooth connections through Taipei to Japanese cities such as Nagoya, Sapporo, and Fukuoka. The partnership greatly enhances route flexibility and travel convenience for customers of both airlines.
The codeshare arrangement simplifies travel by allowing guests to make a single booking with one check-in process at the departure airport, along with the added convenience of automatic baggage transfer to their final destination. Both airlines will carry out joint sales and marketing initiatives in Taiwan, and plan to launch a reciprocal frequent flyer program partnership by the end of the year.
“Our partnership with Etihad Airways marks a significant milestone in STARLUX Airlines’ global expansion, laying the foundation for future European routes,” said Simon Liu, Chief Strategy Officer of STARLUX Airlines. “As one of the Middle East’s leading carriers, Etihad is globally recognized for its innovation and premium service—values that strongly align with the STARLUX brand. By leveraging Abu Dhabi’s role as a major hub, this codeshare allows us to rapidly extend our network into Europe, offering passengers a wider range of travel options. We also look forward to deepening collaboration on mileage accrual and premium services to ensure an exceptional experience for customers.”
Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways, said: “This partnership with STARLUX Airlines opens new market opportunities in Northeast Asia, giving our customers access to Japan’s key business and leisure destinations through Taipei. STARLUX Airlines’ reputation for premium service aligns perfectly with our standards, and together we’re offering travellers more choice and convenience when connecting across three continents.”
STARLUX Airlines currently operates 32 routes across 27 destinations, featuring a robust Asian network while steadily expanding its footprint in North America with service to Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle. On June 2, the airline launched its newest route to Ontario, California, with four weekly flights, further strengthening its presence on the U.S. West Coast. In February 2026, STARLUX is scheduled to launch its fifth U.S. destination—Phoenix—further enhancing its transpacific network. The newly signed codeshare partnership with Etihad Airways marks another key milestone in STARLUX’s international growth, enhancing global connectivity and delivering a seamless and elevated travel experience for passengers worldwide.
