Quantcast

Why United & Alaska painted their planes with special Star Wars themes

Air India Warned Over Crew Fatigue and Training Failures Following Fatal Crash
Heathrow Chief Defends £50–60 billion Third Runway Amid Rising Costs Debate
New UK airline with cheap US fares is ‘parked’ after just TWO flights – with people fearing it’s been scrapped for good
US carriers shamed in surprising new list of the world’s ‘cleanest’ airlines
Air Force Pilot Wasn't Alerted to Collision Course with Passenger Jet Before Scary Near Miss, Says Official
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy may deny flights from Mexico over broken aviation agreement
Plane Makes Emergency Landing After ‘Unruly’ Passenger Attempts to Open Exit Door Mid-Flight
American Airlines Launches Ultra‑Long‑Haul DFW–Manila Flights
Thousands of flights canceled or delayed across America's busiest airports
Summer flight delays to be 'worst ever' this year - what to do if affected
Emirates operates with SAF at London Heathrow Airport
British Airways Introduces Brunch Service on Long-Haul Flights
AirAsia FREE SEATS is BACK! - Book Cheap Flight now!
FAA Investigating After JetBlue Plane Skids Off Runway
Virgin Atlantic Offers Family-Friendly Holiday Packages
The Billion-Dollar Outlier That's Rescuing San Francisco Tourism
New Heathrow Security Rule Makes Packing Bags Easier for Travelers
Alaska Airlines Adding More Boeing 787 to Boost Seattle Hub
Ryanair cancels 170 flights, disrupts over 30,000 passengers on French ATC strike
What to Know About Travel to Europe During This Record-Breaking Heatwave
Airport Workers Save the Day After Woman Loses Diamond from Her Engagement Ring in Baggage Carousel
I never talk to strangers on the plane. After my dad died, a passenger helped me talk about my grief.
American Airlines reveals new summer route: Miami → Rome
Budget UK airline launches huge sale with £29 flights to 475 holiday hotspots – but you’ll have to be quick
Delta Passengers Can Book a ‘Last Mile’ Private Jet Charter to Europe This Summer
Honeywell Runway Safety Technology Selected by Southwest Airlines for Fleetwide Installation
Southwest Airlines Adds Cockpit Alerts to Boost Runway Safety
FAA Drone Detection Testing
This Airline Is Going to Start Handing Out $675 Fines to 'Unruly' Passengers: 'It Is Unacceptable'
Summer of savings? New analysis shows airfare has dropped significantly - The Points Guy
Why United & Alaska painted their planes with special Star Wars themes
Policy
Webp 5r3vc2svdh8ibaxk8gr8iutw0za2
Simple Flying | Simple Flying

Aviation companies often explore creative methods to connect with passengers beyond traditional services. Among these, special liveries serve as a unique marketing tool, transforming aircraft into cultural symbols and storytelling mediums. Recently, United Airlines and Alaska Airlines introduced Boeing 737-800 liveries inspired by the Star Wars franchise. These themed planes are more than just visual tributes; they represent strategic efforts to engage customers through popular culture.

United Airlines first launched its Star Wars-themed livery in 2019, coinciding with the release of "Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker." The collaboration with Lucasfilm and Disney aimed to "... bring the magic of Star Wars to customers around the globe." The design featured imagery from both sides of the Force and extended to in-flight experiences like themed safety videos and merchandise.

Alaska Airlines followed in 2022 with a livery celebrating "Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge," aligning itself with Disneyland Resort's attraction. The artwork included the Millennium Falcon and TIE Fighters, reinforcing Alaska Airlines' family-friendly image while strategically tapping into increased post-pandemic travel.

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

These initiatives illustrate a broader trend where airlines use entertainment partnerships to forge emotional connections with passengers. By associating themselves with beloved franchises like Star Wars, airlines generate excitement and foster positive brand associations.

Special liveries also offer benefits such as increased brand visibility, passenger loyalty, ancillary revenue streams through themed merchandise, and substantial media coverage. As large mobile advertisements, these planes capture attention wherever they fly.

In an increasingly competitive aviation market, distinctive liveries help airlines stand out by engaging passengers on a cultural level. They promote destinations and events while showcasing commitment to broader cultural conversations. For instance, Qantas' Aboriginal art designs honor Australia's indigenous cultures.

The Star Wars collaborations by United and Alaska demonstrate how creative branding can enhance market presence and passenger loyalty. Special liveries prove that innovation knows no bounds in aviation, offering passengers memorable journeys infused with imagination.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

UPS has operated one of the longest direct air cargo routes in the United States since 2018, connecting Louisville’s Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) in Kentucky with Dubai International Airport (DXB) in the United Arab Emirates.

Aug 2, 2025

The Boeing 737 MAX 10 is the largest version of the 737 family, designed to compete with the Airbus A321neo.

Aug 2, 2025

Russian airline Aeroflot reported significant flight disruptions on Monday, July 28, due to a failure in its information systems.

Aug 2, 2025

After more than four years, American Airlines will reintroduce its Boeing 777-200ER aircraft on the New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) route starting October 6.

Aug 2, 2025

The Airbus A321XLR, which entered service in late 2024, is now the longest-range narrowbody aircraft available.

Aug 2, 2025

The Boeing 747 and Airbus A380 are the only commercial jetliners with a partial or full second passenger deck, and both have left a significant mark on aviation history.

Aug 2, 2025