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Concorde's unique liveries reflect diverse partnerships and commemorations

Concorde's unique liveries reflect diverse partnerships and commemorations
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British Airways Concorde | Wikimedia

This week marks the 49th anniversary of the Concorde's entry into service, a milestone in commercial aviation history. The iconic supersonic airliner, with its distinctive delta-wing design, had only 14 production models alongside six prototypes. Air France and British Airways were its primary operators. Despite this limited production run, several unique liveries graced the Concorde during its operational years.

One notable livery was the result of a partnership between British Airways and Singapore Airlines. Initially deployed on flights from London Heathrow to Bahrain International Airport, the route was later extended to Singapore Paya Lebar Airport in December 1977. "British Airways allowed the contemporary Singapore Airlines livery to be painted on the left-hand (port) side of one of its Concorde aircraft," Heritage Concorde notes. This marketing agreement saw flight attendants from both airlines working onboard, though British Airways' pilots remained in control.

Another memorable livery belonged to Air France's F-BTSD aircraft which was painted blue as part of a campaign for Pepsi towards the end of the 20th century. The promotional effort cost Pepsi $500 million but required modifications due to safety concerns regarding heat retention at supersonic speeds.

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In addition to these commercial liveries, one prototype Concorde sported a special tricolor paint job in 1989 to commemorate two anniversaries: Concorde's first flight and the start of the French Revolution.

Concorde also made an appearance on screen in "The Concorde... Airport '79," where an Air France jetliner was temporarily repainted for filming purposes.

Throughout its career, British Airways' standard liveries evolved from 'Negus' to 'Landor,' before settling on a design that remains today. Meanwhile, Air France maintained consistency with minor adjustments reflecting changes over time until Concorde's retirement.

Organizations Included in this History
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