Alaska Airlines has introduced a vibrant new aircraft that combines aviation history with one of entertainment’s most beloved franchises. The carrier officially revealed a Toy Story 5-themed Embraer E175 operated by Horizon Air, marking a major milestone as the regional airline celebrates 45 years of flying. The specially painted aircraft, known as “To 45 and Beyond,” honors Horizon’s legacy while strengthening Alaska Airlines’ long-standing partnership with The Walt Disney Company.
The newly unveiled jet features some of Pixar’s most recognizable characters, including Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and Jessie, alongside newer additions such as Forky and characters from the upcoming Toy Story 5. The colorful design transforms the regional aircraft into a flying tribute to imagination, adventure, and family-friendly travel. As the aircraft enters service, travelers across the United States will have an opportunity to experience one of the most visually distinctive regional jets currently operating in North America.
The debut is especially significant because it represents a first within Alaska Airlines’ collection of Disney-themed aircraft. Previous special liveries were exclusively applied to the airline’s Boeing 737 fleet. By selecting a Horizon Air Embraer E175, Alaska has extended the Disney experience to regional routes, bringing the magic of Pixar to a broader range of destinations and communities.
Horizon Air Reaches a Historic 45-Year Milestone
The launch of the aircraft coincides with an important chapter in Horizon Air’s history. Founded in 1981 by entrepreneur Milt Kuolt, Horizon Air rapidly expanded throughout the Pacific Northwest and neighboring regions. Its growth and strategic importance attracted the attention of Alaska Air Group, which acquired the airline in 1986.
For decades, Horizon maintained its own distinctive identity while operating under Alaska Air Group ownership. The carrier became known for connecting smaller cities and regional communities, providing essential air service across the western United States. In 2011, Horizon became more closely integrated with Alaska Airlines through consolidated ticketing systems, shared branding, and fleet alignment.
Reflecting on the anniversary, Horizon Air President and CEO Andy Schneider emphasized the significance of the occasion, describing the aircraft as a celebration of both the airline’s employees and its passengers. The special livery serves as a visible reminder of Horizon’s role in connecting travelers for nearly half a century while looking confidently toward the future.
A Growing Collection of Disney-Themed Aircraft
Alaska Airlines’ relationship with Disney stretches back more than 24 years, originating through promotional collaborations connected to Disneyland Resort. Over time, that partnership evolved into one of the aviation industry’s most recognizable special-livery programs.
Several aircraft have carried elaborate Disney designs, including the popular Mickey’s Toontown Express, Star Wars Transport to Galaxy’s Edge, Friendship and Beyond at Pixar Pier, and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Flyer. Each aircraft became a flying attraction in its own right, drawing attention from aviation enthusiasts, Disney fans, and travelers alike.
What distinguishes “To 45 and Beyond” from its predecessors is its placement on an Embraer E175 rather than a Boeing 737. The decision reflects the growing importance of Horizon Air within Alaska’s network and highlights the airline’s confidence in the regional jet’s role in future operations.
The Art and Craft Behind Special Liveries
Creating a Disney-themed aircraft involves far more than applying decals. These aircraft are carefully painted by skilled technicians who spend thousands of hours bringing the designs to life. Every curve of the fuselage, engine nacelle, and tail section must be incorporated into the artwork while maintaining strict aviation safety and durability standards.
The complexity of these projects is remarkable. Alaska Airlines previously revealed that one Disney aircraft required more than 2,000 hours of painting work to complete. Artists meticulously layer colors, graphics, and protective coatings to ensure the design remains vibrant despite constant exposure to weather and operational wear.
The new Toy Story aircraft continues that tradition. From the detailed character illustrations to the themed graphics running along the fuselage, the jet serves as both a transportation asset and a flying piece of artwork. Its appearance is designed to create excitement from the moment passengers spot it at the gate.
Bringing the Toy Story Experience Onboard
The Disney experience does not end with the exterior paint scheme. Alaska Airlines has developed themed elements that extend into the travel experience itself. On selected Disney-branded flights, passengers may encounter custom music during boarding, illustrated snack packaging for children, and playful announcements inspired by featured characters.
For the Toy Story-themed aircraft, travelers can expect aviation-themed adaptations of familiar western-style phrases associated with Woody and his friends. Announcements such as “Saddle Up, It’s Takeoff Time!” and “Ready for Takeoff, Partner” help create a lighthearted atmosphere that appeals to families and Disney enthusiasts.
These details contribute to Alaska Airlines’ reputation for creating memorable travel experiences beyond standard transportation. By combining storytelling with aviation, the airline transforms an ordinary regional flight into something more engaging and distinctive.
The Embraer E175 Defines Horizon Air’s Modern Era
The special livery also highlights the aircraft that now forms the backbone of Horizon Air’s fleet. For many years, the airline relied heavily on Dash 8 and Dash 8-Q400 turboprop aircraft, which became synonymous with regional flying in the Pacific Northwest.
That era concluded when the final turboprops retired from revenue service, leaving the Embraer E175 as Horizon’s sole aircraft type. The transition simplified operations while significantly enhancing passenger comfort.
The E175 is widely regarded as one of the most passenger-friendly regional jets in service. Its two-by-two seating layout eliminates middle seats entirely, while larger overhead bins accommodate standard carry-on luggage. The aircraft also offers First Class and Premium Class seating, aligning the onboard experience more closely with Alaska Airlines’ mainline fleet.
Passengers benefit from a quieter cabin, smoother ride characteristics, and access to onboard amenities similar to those available on larger aircraft. The jet’s increased range has additionally enabled Horizon Air to serve destinations that were less practical with older turboprop equipment.
As Horizon Air celebrates 45 years of service, the arrival of the Toy Story 5 Embraer E175 symbolizes both heritage and progress. It honors decades of regional aviation excellence while showcasing the modern aircraft and customer experience that will define the airline’s next generation of growth. For Alaska Airlines, Disney, and aviation enthusiasts alike, “To 45 and Beyond” is a fitting tribute to a remarkable journey that continues to reach new heights.
