TAOYUAN, Taiwan - Taiwan's Starlux Airlines on Thursday unveiled a plane designed by Japanese illustrator Hajime Sorayama, best known for his involvement in the design of Sony Group Corp.'s robotic pet dog Aibo.
Featuring a striking unique silver livery, the Airbus A350-1000, which will enter regular commercial service in October, was unveiled at a ceremony at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport.
In a video message delivered to the event, Sorayama said it was the largest work he has ever created and that he was honored to be part of it. "Honestly, it felt more like a hobby than work for me. I really enjoyed it and I hope all of you enjoy it too," he said.
Starlux Chairman Chang Kuo-wei said at the ceremony Sorayama enjoys creating things that are completely unlike what anyone else is doing. "His philosophy aligns closely with mine, because we also take pride in doing what others don't dare attempt, haven't attempted, and simply can't do," Chang said.
The aircraft is scheduled to make its first passenger flight to Narita airport near Tokyo on Sunday before officially entering service on Oct. 1.
