Starlux's Sorayama-themed A350 arrives in Taiwan

Taipei, Aug. 16 (CNA) A Starlux Airbus A350-1000 featuring livery by renowned Japanese artist Hajime Sorayama arrived at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport on Sunday, ahead of its commercial debut on the Taiwan-based carrier's Taipei-Tokyo route later this week.

The aircraft, registered B-58554 and named "Airsorayama Gold," landed at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport at 9:43 a.m., according to Starlux.

In a statement, Starlux said it is the second plane in the airline's "Starlux Airsorayama" art project, which showcases Sorayama's signature metallic aesthetic.

The new aircraft features a gold-themed livery that complements the airline's first Sorayama-designed jet, "Airsorayama Silver," Starlux said.

The aircraft is scheduled to enter commercial service on Flight JX800 on the Taipei-Narita route starting Thursday.

To mark the launch, Starlux plans to display both Sorayama-themed aircraft side by side on the apron at Narita International Airport, allowing the artist to see the completed works together.

The airline also plans to use the gold-liveried aircraft on its Taipei-Bangkok route beginning Aug. 26, offering what it described as a limited-time art flight experience.

Starlux said its fleet has now expanded to 36 aircraft, comprising 13 Airbus A321neo jets, nine A330neo aircraft, 10 A350-900s and four A350-1000s.

The carrier said it will continue expanding its medium- and long-haul widebody fleet, with the A350-1000 expected to play a key role in supporting the airline's long-haul network expansion thanks to its long-range capability and higher passenger capacity.