Logo Jets: Unique Liveries in the Sky

While waiting for departure the other day I had the pleasure of watching All Nippon Airlines (ANA) Star Wars "R2D2" Dreamliner land. I could only imagine all the kids in the terminal saying " Look, look, it's R2D2 on that plane! " ANA has actually created 3 of these Star Wars themed aircraft.  

ANA R2D2 Dreamliner

Logo or Special Addition jets are becoming more popular and a plane spotters dream. Getting that special shot of a certain airline's uniquely painted fin is quite the coupe. Airlines have been doing this for many years when celebrating  an aniversary or special event happening in thier home country. In such cases,the logo of the event is usually added to the fuselage without replacing the original livery. 

Lufthansa 747 Supporting the German National Football Team

The trend lately has been for advertizing or promotion  purposes.  When adding advertisements, the aircraft's normal livery is removed from the fuselage, leaving only the airline's logo painted, for example, on the engine's cowling or tail. Airlines may do it to add another revenue stream through the advertizing dollars, or because they have a financial affiliation with the product, location, or event.   

Example of Ryanair Ad Jet

Some airlines are actually using thier aircraft fuselages for a calculated attempt to raise revenue. An example of this is European low-cost carrier Ryan Air.  The low cost airline is selling what it claims is the “largest and cheapest” form of outdoor advertising in Europe by offering for its 300-plus aircraft to be painted with the branding of another company. Companies can buy advertising on other parts of its aircraft, including the tips of the wings and the main body of the plane.  

Ed Force One - Iron Maiden Tour 747 leased
from Air Atlanta. Singer and pilot Bruce
 Dickinson usually at the controls.

So next time you plane spotting at an airport, looking out your airplane window or just gazing out from the terminal, keep an eye out for one of these unique liveries. Have your camera ready, you never know what you'll see: an airline retro scheme, an add for you favorite vacation spot, or a special livery for your favorite sports team. Who knows you may even see one advertizing a heavy metal band with the lead singer at the controls.


Airlines do this to catch your eye, so let them, and enjoy!



If you have any favorite photos of logo jet (copy right approved) feel free to post in comments.