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Starlux Airlines has become a favorite among premium cabin fans since it started flying to the U.S., but booking it with points has never been easy. That changed in August 2026: Etihad Guest now sells Starlux awards to its members. The catch is that Etihad charges more than another program that has quietly offered the same flights for a while.
In this article, we list the Etihad Guest mileage rates from the U.S. to Taipei, compare them with the cheaper alternative, and explain when each option makes sense. We also flag Etihad’s cancellation policy, which deserves attention before you book. For card options that feed these programs, see our guide to the best credit cards.
Etihad and Starlux signed a codeshare agreement in 2025, and that partnership has now grown into full award access. Since August 11, 2026, members can spend Etihad Guest miles on Starlux-operated flights. Because Starlux sits outside the three big alliances, every new booking channel matters.
Starlux serves five U.S. airports today, all connecting to its Taipei hub. That network gives West Coast travelers a genuine alternative to the usual carriers across the Pacific.
Etihad prices partner awards by distance, and every U.S. gateway to Taipei lands in the top band. As a result, the rates are the same whether you leave from Seattle or Phoenix. Taxes and fees run about $34 one way.
The gap is hard to ignore. Alaska’s Atmos Rewards program charges roughly half of what Etihad asks in both cabins, and it also opens premium economy. However, Atmos covers only four of the five gateways: Phoenix departures are not included.
Atmos wins on price, yet it loses on access. Alaska’s program takes transfers from Bilt, which limits how quickly most travelers can build a balance. Etihad Guest, by contrast, partners with several flexible U.S. currencies, so many people already hold enough miles or can top up with a transfer.
The process is straightforward once you know where to search. Follow these steps to compare both programs before you commit miles.
More ways to book Starlux is good news, especially for a carrier that stays outside the alliances. Etihad Guest now sells these awards at 75,000 miles in economy and about 140,000 in business one way from the U.S. to Taipei, plus roughly $34 in fees.
Still, Atmos Rewards charges about half as much on four of the five routes, so check Alaska first unless you fly from Phoenix or you already sit on a pile of Etihad miles. And because Etihad award tickets are effectively non-refundable, book only when your plans are locked. For more award news each week, subscribe to our newsletter.
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