Taiwanese airline Starlux opens new lounge that’s out of this world…literally

Starlux, the resilient startup airline that navigated its way through the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, continues to soar high in 2023. The airline recently expanded its horizons with long-haul flights from Taipei to San Francisco and Los Angeles, accompanied by an exciting partnership with Alaska Airlines. However, there's a catch for passengers departing from Terminal 2, where US flights, along with those to Thailand and Singapore, take off, presenting a unique lounge situation.

Galactic Lounge Takes Off at Terminal 2

In a surprising move, Starlux quietly unveiled its latest offering – the Galactic Lounge at Terminal 2. The announcement was made through a series of understated social media posts, aligning with the airline's space-themed branding. The lounge, with its space-age aesthetics, stands in stark contrast to the more conventional design of the original Terminal 1 lounge (below).

Design

The Galactic Lounge at Terminal 2 has a distinctive interior reminiscent of a spaceship, with a daring departure from the airline's usual premium aesthetics. The use of garish yellows in the design, extending from the locker room to the bathroom, may not appeal to everyone.

However, in the primary dining and relaxation areas, the design takes an interesting turn, resembling a blend of an upmarket bar, Cathay Pacific lounges, and the interior of a shipping container. Opinions may vary on the uniqueness of this design choice.

Dining

While details on the food and beverage offerings remain limited, social media posts showcase Taiwanese staples like bao buns - or opt for premium cocktails.

Drawing from reviews of the Galactic Lounge at Terminal 1, passengers can anticipate a diverse selection of self-serve Taiwanese, Asian, and Western dining options. However, it's worth noting that labeling the buffet as 'fine dining' may be a stretch.

Great expectations

The new Galactic Lounge at Terminal 2 boasts a maximum capacity of 116 passengers, equivalent to 3.8 premium cabins of Starlux's Airbus A350 at full capacity. Despite its relatively small size, the limited number of Starlux flights from Terminal 2 and the exclusivity of elite travellers suggest that the lounge may not reach full capacity too quickly.

While opinions on the lounge design may vary, Starlux undeniably distinguishes itself through its bold philosophy and brand identity. As the airline continues to carve a niche in the aviation industry, passengers may find themselves intrigued by the prospect of experiencing Starlux on both short and long-haul journeys

What do you think of the new Starlux lounge? Drop your thoughts down below.