In the world of aviation, family dramas can take flight in the most unexpected ways. Imagine a tale of betrayal, ambition, and the birth of a new airline—all set against the backdrop of Taiwan's skies. This is the story of STARLUX Airlines, a company born from the ashes of a family feud that could rival any Shakespearean tragedy.
It all began with the passing of Chang Yung-fa, the patriarch of Taiwan’s Evergreen Group and founder of EVA Air. In January 2016, his son Chang Kuo-wei, an accomplished aircraft technician, pilot, and chairman of EVA Air since 2013, seemed the natural successor. But here’s where it gets dramatic: Kuo-wei, the youngest son and only child of Yung-fa’s second wife, was ousted in a coup orchestrated by his three half-siblings. The irony? He learned of his removal while piloting an EVA Air flight to Singapore.
Now, what would you do if you were in Kuo-wei’s shoes? Vent online? Cut ties? Or, in a move that screams 'revenge is a dish best served at 35,000 feet,' start your own airline? Enter STARLUX, which, while publicly denying any vendetta, wouldn’t mind becoming the ‘Emirates of Asia’ while giving EVA Air a run for its money.
And this is the part most people miss: I decided to put both airlines to the test, comparing their long-haul offerings to see which side of this family feud I’d align with. Let’s dive into the details.
The Flights
In January 2025, a rare opportunity arose: a glut of transpacific award space on STARLUX loaded onto Alaska Mileage Plan. For just 85,000 miles and $93, I snagged a business class ticket from Singapore to San Francisco via Taipei. The Singapore to Taipei leg was on an A330-900neo, a regional business class seat I’ve reviewed before—excellent, though not ideal for couples. But the real star was the Taipei to San Francisco leg on STARLUX’s flagship A350-900, featuring all-new First and Business Class seats.
Controversial opinion alert: While STARLUX’s A350 Business Class boasts 26 seats in a 1-2-1 layout, privacy doors, 4K screens, and zero-gravity settings, EVA Air’s B777-300ER Business Class feels dated in comparison. Yes, EVA’s reverse herringbone seats aren’t terrible, but they’re no match for STARLUX’s cutting-edge design. But here’s where it gets controversial: EVA Air counters with its soft product—think Piper-Heidsieck Rare champagne, Jason Wu-designed sleepwear, and Giorgio Armani amenity kits. So, which would you choose: sleek innovation or luxurious touches?
The Lounges
Lounges are where airlines can truly shine—or fall flat. STARLUX’s Galactic Lounge in Taipei is a spaceport-themed marvel, complete with flight suits, Star Trek-esque doors, and Disney-level immersion. EVA Air, however, complicates things with four lounges in Taipei, none of which particularly stand out. In San Francisco, EVA uses the refurbished Air France Lounge, which, while improved, still lags behind the Polaris Lounge.
The Hotels
Let’s be honest: sometimes, a hotel is just a place to sleep. My stay at Holiday Inn Express locations in Silicon Valley was unremarkable but comfortable—comfy beds, clean rooms, and free parking. Nothing to write home about, but perfect for burning orphan IHG points.
The Verdict
The STARLUX-EVA Air rivalry is a fascinating battle of new vs. established. STARLUX has the edge in modernity, but EVA’s soft product and service are hard to beat. Here’s my thought-provoking question for you: If you had to choose, would you side with the innovative upstart or the seasoned veteran? Let me know in the comments—I’m curious to hear your take!
Stay tuned for more in-depth reports, and remember: in the world of aviation, every flight tells a story. Which one will you board?
