Quantcast

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

Travelers are taking extreme measures and using hacks to avoid airline baggage fees
Wizz Air becomes first airline to operate P&W-powered Airbus A321XLR jet
Hawaiian Airlines’ new ‘no show’ policy may make travel more expensive
BLIMP-SE OF THE FUTURE Luxury zeppelins of the future from ‘flying bum’ world’s largest aircraft to Google billionaire’s ‘impossible’ airship
Swiss Startup SmartFlyer Develops Hybrid-Electric Trainer
San Francisco-based entrepreneur takes a trip on India's worst-rated airline, his reaction will surprise you
First-Time Flyer at 81: A Grandmother's Memorable Journey
Ryanair forecasts fare rebound as consumers recover from interest-rate hit
Global Airlines Launches Inaugural Flight, Aiming to Revive 'Golden Age of Travel'
Winning routes: American Airlines adds more than 22,000 seats for football fans following release of 2025–2026 pro schedule
Boeing scores Middle East plane deal during Trump visit
Air travel will be ‘worse’ this summer, lawmakers warn — as FAA gives infuriating update on system fixes, staffing issues
United Airlines CEO Reassures Passengers About Newark Airport Safety
American Testing Tech to Help Passengers Make Connecting Flights
British Airways to use AI in efforts to improve operations
American Airlines Tests New Tech to Help Passengers With Tight Connections During Summer Rush
Flight Diverted After Pregnant Woman on Board Goes into Labor and Delivers Her Baby: Report
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby says "this is the most optimistic I've been in my entire career about finally getting the FAA fixed"
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy Unveils Plan to Build Brand New, State-of-the-Art Air Traffic Control System
Passenger rushing for next flight can't believe what woman next to her does
Why fuel price crash won’t make flying cheaper
Kristi Noem says travelers without Real ID will still be able to fly after deadline
Frontier Airlines Announces New Routes Launching This Summer, Connecting Baltimore With Chicago O’Hare and Trenton, N.J. With Myrtle Beach, S.C.
Airlines in North America prioritize investments in cyber, AI
The evolution of the airline uniform — a cross check
Global Airlines & HiFly Operate 1st Passenger Airbus A380 Flight Between Barcelona And Berlin
American Airlines unveils ritzy new plane suites launching this summer
Airline Stocks To Keep An Eye On - April 28th
Gatwick Airport Faces Potential Strikes
50 New Routes Starting In May 2025
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

Emirates Airlines has highlighted the evolution of its cabin crew uniform, emphasizing its commitment to timeless design and practicality.

Oct 23, 2025

Emirates has achieved the Gold Tier status in the 2024 Fly Quiet Programme at New York’s JFK Airport, making it the only airline to receive this distinction among all participating carriers.

Oct 23, 2025

Flying Food Group, Inc. has announced the recipients of its 2025 scholarships, with all five applicants receiving awards this year.

Oct 23, 2025

Dnata, a global provider of air and travel services, has entered into a joint venture with Azerbaijan’s Silk Way Group to launch ground handling and cargo operations at Alat International Airport, located in the Alat Free Economic Zone in Baku.

Oct 22, 2025

Delta Air Lines has announced the release of version 7.5 of its mobile app, introducing new features aimed at making travel planning and management easier for customers during the holiday season.

Oct 22, 2025

The Fair Work Commission has ruled that a former employee of dnata Airport Services was unfairly dismissed and awarded $36,468.39 in compensation.

Oct 22, 2025