An airline’s livery is an important aspect of its overall brand identification, and having a memorable and easily identifiable livery may be an effective marketing tool. Some of the most recognizable airline liveries in the world today are:
- American Airlines
- Emirates
- Qantas
- Singapore Airlines.
However, every now and then, an airline will release a one-of-a-kind livery to commemorate a unique occasion or to promote a collaboration with another organization or business. Aviation enthusiasts (also known as avgeeks) frequently travel long distances to fly in one of these limited-edition liveries.
For example, Malaysia Airlines debuted its Negaraku livery on a Boeing 737-800 in 2017 to commemorate Malaysia’s 60th year of independence. The livery was so popular that it was applied to other aircraft in the carrier’s fleet, including two Airbus A350-900s. At the time of its inception, Malaysia Airlines’ Chairman, Nor Yusof, stated,
“The Negaraku livery embraces the spirit of nationalism, carrying with it the essence of the unique Malaysian values across the world. It is also an important symbol of the good progress seen in the turnaround plan, as the national carrier rebuilds itself, whilst flying the flag across the skies as it works to become the pride of the nation again.”
Let’s take a look at some other distinctive liveries from the world of commercial aviation that are worth going the extra mile for.
Hawaiian Airlines
Moana 2
In late 2024, Hawaiian Airlines revealed three unique liveries commemorating the release of the successful Disney film Moana 2. The liveries adorned one of the airline’s three aircraft types: the Airbus A330-200, A321neo, and Boeing 717.
Passengers on the inaugural flights received special commemorative presents, as well as a chance to win 500,000 HawaiianMiles through the airline’s reward program.
Hawaiian Airlines’ three Moana 2-inspired liveries each have a different name with a specific significance, all related to the subject of travel.
- Hōkūleʻa (Airbus A330-200) – refers to the traditional Hawaiian canoe
- Koa (Airbus A321neo) – refers to the Acacia Koa, which is the wood used to build traditional Hawaiian canoes
- Elepaio (Boeing 717) – refers to the native Hawaiian bird that is considered to be the guardian of canoe builders.
Hawaiian Airlines has promoted the Moana film series before. To commemorate the release of the first film, the airline debuted its first Moana-inspired aircraft, an Airbus A330-200, in 2016.
EVA Air
Hello Kitty
EVA Air has had a connection with Sanrio, the designer of Hello Kitty, for nearly 20 years. The Taiwanese airline presently operates four Hello Kitty-inspired aircraft, including two widebody Boeing 777-300ERs, the first of which was registered as B-16740 and dubbed “Lolly Jet.”
In August 2024, EVA Air unveiled its latest Hello Kitty-themed Boeing 777-300ER, dubbed “Besties Jet.” Once onboard, guests may continue their Hello Kitty experience with the theme integrated into the headrests, safety cards, place settings, children’s meals, and even slippers for first and business class customers.
Currently, the carrier’s Hello Kitty-inspired Boeing 777-300ERs fly on two essential long-haul routes from its hub at Taipei Taoyuan International Airport (TPE). They are:
| Aircraft name | Aircraft registration | Flight number(s) | Destination | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lolly Jet | B-16740 | BR87 / BR 88 | Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) | 3 x week (Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday departures from Taipei) |
| Besties Jet | B-16722 | BR55 / BR56 | Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) | 3 x week (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday departures from Taipei) |
All Nippon Airways
Star Wars
All Nippon Airways currently operates two aircraft with Star Wars-themed liveries: a Boeing 787-9 in R2-D2 livery (registration JA873A) and a Boeing 777-200 in C-3PO livery (registration JA743A).
The Star Alliance airline has used the Boeing 787-9 on a variety of foreign routes from its hubs at Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT) and Tokyo Haneda Airport. These destinations include Los Angeles (LAX), Munich (MUC), Paris (CDG), Hanoi (HAN), Guangzhou (CAN), and Washington, DC (IAD).
When it comes to the Boeing 777-200, it is a little more difficult to plan when and where the aircraft will go, according to All Nippon Airways.
“The C-3PO ANA JET will fly mainly on domestic flights to and from Haneda. The routes are subject to change depending on the situation of daily operations. Please kindly note that we are unable to inform you in advance.”
All Nippon Airways has previously operated a third Star Wars-themed aircraft, a Boeing 777-300 designated JA789A. However, this aircraft was retired in March 2022, therefore the livery can no longer be seen in the sky today.
All Nippon Airways
Flying Honu
Sticking with All Nippon Airways, the Japanese carrier maintains a fleet of three Airbus A380s, each with its own Flying Honu livery. The liveries depict distinct turtle species found in the oceans of Hawaii, with ‘Honu’ meaning sea turtle in Hawaiian.
All Nippon Airways unveiled the Flying Honu Airbus A380s in 2019, which proved to be quite popular with passengers. The three hues have different meanings:
- Blue – represents Hawaii’s blue skies
- Green – represents the crystal clear waters of the Pacific Ocean
- Orange – represents the beautiful sunsets often seen in Hawaii.
The Flying Honu Airbus A380s are now flying between All Nippon Airways’ hub at Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT) and Honolulu Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL). The carrier competes with Japan Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines on Hawaii’s busiest international route—874,000 passengers flew from Honolulu to one of Tokyo’s two main airports in 2023.
Emirates
United for Wildlife
Animal enthusiasts will surely want to fly on Emirates’ eye-catching Airbus A380s, which have a unique livery highlighting the airline’s relationship with United for Wildlife. Emirates is the world’s largest Airbus A380 operator, flying the superjumbo to destinations such as London Heathrow (LHR), Los Angeles (LAX), Mauritius (MRU), and Sydney (SYD).
United for conservation is a global initiative that brings together the world’s largest conservation NGOs in the fight against illegal wildlife trading. When the livery was launched in 2015, the President of Emirates, Tim Clark, described its significance, saying,
“The world is in a global poaching crisis, and everyone has to do their part to stop this, before it is too late. Emirates believes that the global transport industry, including airlines, can play a significant role to break the supply chain of illegal wildlife trade.”
Emirates has recently expanded its partnership with United for Wildlife by introducing a line of onboard economy class and premium economy amenity kits featuring eight of the world’s most endangered animals. These animals include the African elephant, blue macaw, gorilla, hammerhead shark, black rhino, and green sea turtle.
United for Wildlife’s amenity packs are reusable and environmentally sourced, according to the organization’s Co-Chair, David Fein.
“The illegal wildlife trade is international organized crime that is driving many iconic species around the world towards extinction at an alarming rate. Airlines and other transport operators have a huge role to play in disrupting the traffickers’ supply chains. Emirates has consistently demonstrated leadership and commitment in tackling this global threat. We are delighted to see the new amenity kits from Emirates now onboard and hope that passengers find them informative and inspiring.”
FAQ
What are themed aircraft?
Themed aircraft are planes that feature unique liveries or special designs inspired by popular movies, cultural icons, partnerships, or events. They aim to create a memorable experience for passengers.
Which airlines have the best themed aircraft?
Some of the airlines known for their iconic themed aircraft include ANA (All Nippon Airways) with its Star Wars planes, EVA Air with Hello Kitty designs, and Icelandair with its Northern Lights livery.
Why do airlines create themed aircraft?
Airlines create themed aircraft to enhance brand recognition, celebrate partnerships, and provide a unique flying experience that excites passengers and aviation enthusiasts.
Can passengers request to fly on a specific themed aircraft?
While passengers can’t always guarantee a specific themed aircraft, some airlines may provide information on routes where themed planes frequently operate.
Are there any special services offered on themed aircraft?
Yes, themed aircraft sometimes offer exclusive in-flight services, such as themed meals, cabin crew uniforms, and branded merchandise to complement the livery.
