Quantcast

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

Flight tickets from Srinagar remain exorbitantly high despite aviation ministry request
RTX Q1 Earnings & Sales Beat Estimates, Increase Year Over Year
Coalition pledges to remove EV tax break two days after Dutton ruled out scrapping it – as it happened
Adani’s airport unit seeks $750 million loan from global banks
Flight made emergency landing in Denver after reported animal strike and engine fire
General Dynamics says G800 jet receives FAA, EASA certifications
United Airlines doubles down on Chicago roots with new O'Hare billboards
Gatwick airport strikes, Easter 2025: will my flight be cancelled?
Boarding passes and check-in could be scrapped in air travel shake-up
European air traffic warning means summer delays for holidaymakers
The EU rule change that could affect millions of Brits when their flight is delayed or cancelled
Delta Earnings Land Soon. Why They’re Key for Airline Stocks and the Economy.
Avelo Airlines to Operate Deportation Flights, Hiring Flight Attendants
Travel chaos 2025: all the strikes and disruption expected across Europe
Qatar Airways accelerates Starlink wifi implementation
Southwest Airlines extends flight schedule through early April 2025
Cathay Pacific reaches 3,400 pilots this year, with low resignation rate of 2.9%
Qatar Airways Nears Boeing 777 Fleet-Wide Starlink Upgrade
United receives FAA approval for first Starlink-equipped planes
50 New Routes Launching In April 2025
Qantas launches mammoth Asia flight sale including Bali and Japan
New Update from Air Canada, WestJet, American Airlines, Delta, United, Southwest, Alaska, JetBlue Airways, and Sunwing: Airline Capacity Between Canada and US Slashed as Bookings Plummet Seventy Per Cent
Delta Cuts Two Domestic Routes
United Airlines Technicians Reject ‘Dead on Arrival’ Contract Proposal, Teamsters Say
The State of the Asia Pacific Airline Industry
Spirit Airlines to add Detroit nonstop flight out of Bradley International Airport
Major airline to launch new direct flights from Scotland to North America
Ryanair launches new ‘prime’ membership which saves passengers more than £400 a year
Judge Orders Boeing to Trial on 737 MAX Case
Qantas’ free international Wi-Fi to switch on from next week
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

Yesterday, a Turkish Airlines Boeing 777-300ER was evacuated at Antalya Airport after smoke was seen coming from its landing gear while taxiing.

Aug 5, 2025

Alaska Airlines has announced the addition of seven new routes across 12 cities in California, Oregon, Washington, and Idaho.

Aug 5, 2025

Ramp is offering a platform aimed at streamlining expense management for U.S.-based businesses with strong cash flow.

Aug 5, 2025

The Boeing E-7 Wedgetail has been identified as the primary replacement for the aging Boeing E-3 Sentry airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft, though its future with the United States Air Force (USAF) remains uncertain.

Aug 5, 2025

Riyadh Air is preparing to launch daily flights between Riyadh and London Heathrow starting October 26, 2025.

Aug 5, 2025

World of Hyatt has announced a new promotion offering guests a 15% bonus on points earned for stays at Under Canvas locations across the United States.

Aug 5, 2025