In a significant move for international travel and economic collaboration, STARLUX Airlines plans to launch a direct flight route between Taipei and Barcelona in the first quarter of 2027. This new connection is expected to bolster Barcelona’s status as a strategic hub for innovation and technology, particularly in the semiconductor industry, following years of efforts by the Barcelona Route Development Committee (CDRA).
Strengthening ties with Taiwan
The introduction of this intercontinental route marks a pivotal advancement in enhancing Barcelona’s international connectivity. It aims to strengthen economic, technological, and institutional ties with Taiwan, which is recognized as one of the world’s leading industrial and technological centers. The CDRA has been actively engaging with STARLUX Airlines since its inception, intensifying discussions since 2024 to position Barcelona within the airline’s European expansion plans.
This initiative aligns with the CDRA’s Strategic Plan 2030, which prioritizes long-haul connections with high-value markets, especially in the Asia-Pacific region. The Taiwanese airline intends to operate this route using its Airbus A350 fleet, featuring both A350-900 and A350-1000 models tailored to operational needs. Each aircraft will offer four classes—First Class, Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy—catering to premium long-haul travelers.
“The new connection reinforces Barcelona’s strategy for connectivity with Asia,” said a spokesperson from CDRA.
The Airbus A350-900 accommodates up to 306 passengers while the A350-1000 can carry up to 350 passengers. This service positions STARLUX as Taiwan’s only airline offering First Class service on international routes.
Taiwan plays a crucial role in the global semiconductor industry, producing nearly 60% of the world’s semiconductors and over 90% of advanced chips. The direct link between Taipei and Barcelona aims to enhance Barcelona’s ambitions of becoming a European hub for semiconductor innovation and design. The city is actively working to attract design centers linked to this strategic industry.
Internationally recognized scientific facilities such as the Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC) and the Institute of Photonic Sciences (ICFO) contribute significantly to making Barcelona one of Europe’s most competitive ecosystems for attracting talent and investment in research.
“The demand for professionals linked to semiconductors has seen an increase of 97.01%, showcasing our potential for growth,” stated an official from Mobile World Capital Barcelona.
This new air connection arrives at a time when demand for skilled professionals in this sector is surging. In line with these developments, the City Council initiated an institutional mission focused on Taiwan in 2024 aimed at promoting technological collaborations and investment opportunities within this vital sector.
The new route also supports Barcelona Impulsa’s strategy aimed at economic diversification by attracting high-value activities that reinforce its international positioning as a globally connected city at key knowledge nodes. With STARLUX entering into service at El Prat Airport, travelers will gain enhanced premium connectivity options with Asia that promise new opportunities not only for quality tourism but also for academic exchanges and business interactions.
The Committee for Air Route Development (CDRA), established in 2005, comprises representatives from Catalonia’s government, Barcelona City Council, Chamber of Commerce of Barcelona, and Aena. Its primary goal is promoting new intercontinental routes from Barcelona Airport. More information can be found on their official website: Barcelona Links.
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