Airline liveries are much more than mere paint jobs; they serve as a visual representation of an airline’s identity and sometimes even its broader cultural or marketing efforts. While traditional airline designs often use simple logos and branding, some airlines go beyond the norm, creating visually stunning, themed aircraft that delight aviation enthusiasts and travelers alike. Whether celebrating a pop culture phenomenon, promoting natural wonders, or showcasing a unique artistic design, these special liveries provide an extra touch of excitement when you’re about to board a flight. In this article, we dive into 11 of the coolest painted planes around the world.
1. ANA Star Wars Jets: A Galactic Adventure in the Skies
All Nippon Airways (ANA) took its brand to the next level with the Star Wars-themed jets that have captured the imagination of fans worldwide. Since 2015, ANA has painted several of its aircraft with iconic characters from the Star Wars universe. Among these, the R2-D2 ANA Jet is perhaps the most famous. This Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner features the charming droid R2-D2 on its fuselage, while still maintaining ANA’s signature blue and white color scheme.
- R2-D2 ANA Jet: This aircraft flies primarily between Tokyo’s Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND) airports and various international destinations such as Los Angeles, Seattle, and San Francisco.
- BB-8 ANA Jet: Another popular design, featuring the adorable BB-8 droid, flies on routes between Japan and major U.S. cities.
These Star Wars jets make flying an unforgettable experience, especially if you’re lucky enough to catch one of them on your next long-haul journey.
2. Alaska Airlines – West Coast Wonders: A Tribute to Nature
Alaska Airlines’ West Coast Wonders livery honors the natural beauty of the Pacific Ocean, particularly focusing on the orca whales that inhabit the waters of the region. The airline’s Boeing 737-9 MAX aircraft (N932AK) is adorned with a striking mural of orcas swimming through deep blue ocean waves. This paint job is a tribute to the migration of orcas between the Baja Peninsula and Alaska each year.
- Route Information: The aircraft typically flies between major cities along the West Coast, such as Seattle and Los Angeles, as well as between Hawaii and Alaska.
For those who admire wildlife and natural wonders, flying on this plane is like a journey through the Pacific Ocean itself.
3. Icelandair – Hekla Aurora: A Northern Lights Spectacle
Iceland is known for its natural beauty, from active volcanoes to stunning auroras. Icelandair celebrated this with its Hekla Aurora livery, named after one of Iceland’s famous volcanoes, Hekla, and the captivating Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights). The Boeing 757 featuring this livery flies between Reykjavik and various European destinations like Amsterdam and Copenhagen.
- Hekla Aurora: The plane’s fuselage is painted with the swirling colors of the aurora, making it a unique sight in the skies.
- In-Flight Experience: Inside, the aircraft features mood lighting that mimics the Northern Lights, creating a magical atmosphere for passengers.
Traveling on this plane is not only a visual treat, but it also offers the chance to see the actual aurora if you’re lucky enough.
4. Eva Air – Sanrio Characters (Hello Kitty): A Playful and Colorful Experience
Eva Air has long been famous for its collaboration with Sanrio, the creators of Hello Kitty and friends. With six aircraft featuring Sanrio characters, including Hello Kitty, Badtz-Maru, and Gudetama, Eva Air offers a playful and colorful flying experience. The Boeing 777-300 aircraft (registration B-16722), for example, is adorned with Hello Kitty designs and often flies between Taipei and Los Angeles.
- Route Information: You can find these whimsical aircraft flying on routes across Asia and North America, including major cities like New York and Chicago.
- In-Flight Experience: Onboard, everything from snacks to boarding passes is Hello Kitty-themed, making for a delightful experience for fans of the adorable characters.
Although the special in-flight service was suspended due to the pandemic, passengers can still enjoy the unique livery when flying these jets.
5. Nok Air – Birds: Aviation Takes Flight with Thai Birds
Nok Air stands out as one of the most fun airlines in the world, thanks to its distinctive fleet of aircraft painted to resemble various birds. The airline, named after the Thai word for “bird,” has painted Boeing 737s and Bombardier Q400s with bright, bird-like features, including vibrant beaks on the nose. Each aircraft has its own unique design and personality.
- Nok Air’s Fun Fleet: The quirky bird designs help the airline stand out, with passengers often delighted to board a plane that resembles a colorful bird in flight.
If you’re flying within Thailand or the surrounding region, you may find yourself on one of these aviation birds.
6. Southwest Airlines – Freedom One: A Tribute to America
To celebrate 50 years of flying, Southwest Airlines unveiled Freedom One, a Boeing 737-800 painted with the American flag. The aircraft features the iconic 13 stripes and 50 stars, creating a striking visual that honors America’s heritage. This plane is also dedicated to those who have served or are serving in the military, with the inaugural flight crew made up entirely of military veterans.
- Route Information: Freedom One can be spotted on various domestic flights across the USA.
- Aircraft Features: As with all of Southwest’s planes, Freedom One has an all-economy class cabin, perfect for travelers looking to celebrate the nation’s spirit.
This patriotic livery serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by service members while flying passengers to their destinations.
7. WestJet – Disney Magic Plane: The Magic of Disney in the Skies
For those heading to Disney parks in the U.S., WestJet offers a special treat: the Disney Magic Plane. The Boeing 737-800 (registration G-GWSZ) features beloved Disney characters, including Mickey Mouse, on the tail of the aircraft. The plane primarily flies between Canada and the U.S., making it an excellent option for families heading to Disneyland or Disney World.
- Route Information: Typically, the Disney Magic Plane operates on transborder flights between Canada and Los Angeles or Orlando.
Flying on this plane makes the journey to Disney a bit more magical for both kids and adults alike.
8. Rossiya Airlines – Leolet: Conservation Meets Aviation
Russian carrier Rossiya Airlines is dedicated to conservation efforts, as evidenced by its Leolet livery, which features the face of the Far Eastern Leopard. The Boeing 777-300 (registration EI-UNP) is painted with a stunning image of this rare leopard, one of the world’s most endangered species.
- Flight Information: The Leolet aircraft operates on routes to destinations in Eastern Russia and international resort locations.
With a seat on this plane, you’re not only supporting wildlife conservation but also flying on a beautiful aircraft.
9. Emirates – Dubai Expo: Celebrating the World Expo
In preparation for the 2020 Dubai Expo, Emirates painted one of its Airbus A380 aircraft to promote the event. The plane features a stuntwoman standing atop the Burj Khalifa with the words “See you there” emblazoned on its side.
- Route Information: The A380 can be found flying between Dubai and major European cities such as London and Paris, as well as several Middle Eastern destinations.
This eye-catching livery serves as both an advertisement for the Dubai Expo and a tribute to the aviation industry’s technological advancements.
10. Brussels Airlines – Aerosmurf: Smurfing Around Europe
Brussels Airlines’ Aerosmurf livery is an absolute treat for fans of the Smurfs, the famous blue characters from Belgium’s comic franchise. The Airbus A320 is covered in vibrant Smurf designs, and even the interior features blue footprints leading passengers to their seats.
- Route Information: Aerosmurf typically flies on short-haul routes throughout Europe.
If you’re a fan of the Smurfs, there’s no better way to travel across Europe than on this iconic aircraft.
11. United Airlines – The Rise of Skywalker: Star Wars Returns
United Airlines joined the Star Wars trend in 2019 by unveiling its own Star Wars-themed plane to celebrate the release of The Rise of Skywalker. The Boeing 737-800 is decorated with a red and blue lightsaber on the tail, representing the two sides of the Force.
- Route Information: This aircraft operates on routes across the United States.
For Star Wars enthusiasts, flying on this plane is a dream come true, bringing the iconic film franchise to the skies.
FAQ
1. Which plane has the most iconic Star Wars design?
The R2-D2 ANA Jet by ANA is perhaps the most iconic Star Wars-themed aircraft, featuring the beloved droid R2-D2 and a color scheme that blends seamlessly with ANA’s brand.
2. Can I choose to fly on one of these special painted planes?
While it’s impossible to guarantee you’ll be on a specific plane, you can track aircraft movements using websites like Flightradar24 to find out which routes feature these painted planes.
3. Are these special liveries just for show or do they impact the flight experience?
While the special liveries provide a visually stunning experience, they don’t significantly change the in-flight amenities or overall experience. However, some airlines offer unique themed experiences for passengers onboard.
