Starlux Airlines on July 15, 2026 marked a milestone as its STARLUX AIRSORAYAMA aircraft celebrated its inaugural long-haul commercial service, touching down at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Flight JX026 featured the new STARLUX AIRSORAYAMA SILVER (B-58553), an Airbus A350-1000 reimagined as a flying masterpiece through a partnership with legendary Japanese artist Hajime Sorayama — making Phoenix the first destination in North America to welcome the iconic aircraft.
The arrival was commemorated with a gate ceremony at Phoenix Sky Harbor, where STARLUX officials, Phoenix city leadership, and media gathered to witness the aircraft’s first on-ground appearance in the U.S.
The AIRSORAYAMA CONCEPT
The STARLUX AIRSORAYAMA project comprises two Airbus A350-1000 aircraft — AIRSORAYAMA GOLD and AIRSORAYAMA SILVER — each featuring the signature aesthetic of Sorayama’s artworks, with fluid contours and reflective metallic textures. The artistic vision extends beyond the exterior: passengers experience a fully immersive journey through specially curated cabin amenities, exclusive merchandise collections, and custom-designed inflight content. Each aircraft is configured with four First Class suites, 40 Business Class seats, 36 Premium Economy seats, and 270 Economy Class seats.
A Milestone for Phoenix
As one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the United States and an emerging gateway for commerce and travel across Asia, Phoenix was a natural first choice for STARLUX’s North American debut. “STARLUX Airlines continues to show that the future of aviation is landing in Phoenix,” Mayor Kate Gallego said. “With the launch of the stunning AIRSORAYAMA aircraft in the United States, STARLUX Airlines is building on its six months of successful service in Phoenix.
Inaugural Celebration at Phoenix Sky Harbor
To commemorate the AIRSORAYAMA aircraft’s North American debut, STARLUX held an inaugural ceremony at Phoenix Sky Harbor following the aircraft’s arrival. The event featured a commemorative aircraft model presentation to Mayor Gallego, guided cabin tours, and tarmac access for media photography.
Speakers at the ceremony included Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport Aviation Director Chad Makovsky, American Airlines Head of Partnerships Jeff Ogar, Alaska Airlines Managing Director of Partnerships & International Alex Judson, and STARLUX Chief Strategy Officer Simon Liu. Remarks underscored the significance of the route in deepening cultural, economic, and aviation ties between Phoenix and Asia and highlighted STARLUX’s commitment to redefining the travel experience through innovation and design.
Looking Ahead
Starting October 1, STARLUX Airlines will launch scheduled AIRSORAYAMA services to Phoenix, Tokyo, and Prague, further strengthening its global network and intercontinental connectivity.