When looking up in the sky, one of the most visually appealing things to see is an airplane exhibiting a colorful paint job. Every single aircraft is decorated in an astonishing way, boasting lively hues, intricate details, and distinctive designs that will surely catch one’s eye. From the classic red, white, and blue of American Airlines to the yellow and green of Air New Zealand, aircraft painting is a way to express the identity of a business and create an attention-grabbing appearance.
1) Westjet — Frozen
To create a kid-friendly design of the characters from the movie “Frozen” (Anna, Elsa and Olaf) on an airplane, Westjet Airlines and Disney worked together to hire painters from Canada, the US, and Germany. In total, it required 170 gallons of paint in 23 different shades.
2) Western Pacific – The Simpsons Jet
In 1995, the no longer operating airline Western Pacific made the decision to embellish one of their planes with characters from the widely watched show The Simpsons. This was part of their various advertisements they had decorated the plane with. Bart, Homer, Lisa, and Marge were all clearly visible on the sides of the plane until the airline eventually closed down in 1998.
3) Austrian Airlines – Wiener Philharmoniker
In 2006, Austrian Airlines, Vienna’s airline, paid homage to the city’s esteemed classical music history by adorning one of its aircrafts with an imaginative livery of violins, bassoons, cellos, and other classical instruments. Unfortunately, it was repainted the next year and the design is now no longer visible. Vienna has been the birthplace of some of the most acclaimed composers, orchestras, ballets, and artists around the world.
4) The Terror Of The Skies
Let us no longer talk about the pleasant aspects of aircraft and go back to the A-10’s more suitable military look! This olive drab green color scheme, along with a menacing nose job, is really intimidating. Out of all the creative designs in this list, we had to include this traditionally warlike painting that causes fear among terrorists.
Giving military planes a more approachable feel is a great way to make pilots more daring and enemies more troubled. That is enough about the militaristic design; let us go back to the attractive side of aircraft.
5) Holiday Cheer From Above
The Fairchild Republic A-10 Thunderbolt II looks very different than usual in this cheerful Christmas-themed picture. It’s remarkable to see the amount of festivity that has been added to this plane, with its wreathed wings and engines that look like they are being pulled by reindeer.
The enormous Santa-worthy aircraft against a snowy backdrop creates an interesting comparison in this image. Maybe instead of firing rockets, they could add some festive firecrackers?
6) Flying Fish
This remarkable illustration shows the SC-7 Skyvan 3-100 aircraft of the Czech Republic, owned and operated by Pink Aviation, with a bright colour scheme that is easily noticeable by both adults and kids. It’s easy to imagine this aircraft delivering gifts to kids in Eastern Europe.
How amazing would it be if Santa had Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer as an A-10 Warthog instead? It may be hard to envision, but it would be a great surprise for Santa.
7) NATO Tiger Meet Pt. 2
This French Dassault Rafale M fighter boasts an incredibly striking “Arctic Tiger” design that appears to have been taken straight out of a video game. What do you think about this colour scheme compared to the previous one?
Once you catch a glimpse of this predator, you’d likely think twice before attempting to challenge it. The bright red eyes of the arctic hunter stand out against the predominantly black and white paint job. Special orders were placed for this aircraft to participate in a NATO Tiger Meet.
8) NATO Tiger Meet
During the 2003 NATO Tiger Meet training event, which has a fifty-year long operational history, we were lucky enough to witness this mighty and imposing creature. The Mirage 2000RDI 83/12-YL was from the EX 1/12 host unit, and it was one of the most eye-catching military paint jobs we had ever seen. The meticulous level of detail on this monster was truly inspiring, especially its menacing eyes. Although the paint job was remarkable, unfortunately, the Mirage didn’t even take off – a real shame.
9) The Rainbow Make-A-Wish Jet
It is impossible to overlook this brilliant multicolored plane as it soars through the atmosphere, bringing delight. International Jet Aviation, a Denver-based aircraft management and charter business, gave this vibrant Lear Jet model 35.
It offers much-needed cheer to severely ill youngsters all over the world by taking them on exciting flights if that is what they desire. This aircraft has been operating since 1990, alternating between various designs at various periods. This plane’s last voyage took place in 2019, as displayed above. We commend the joyous paint job and the support it provided to suffering children.
10) The Winged Warrior
Is it possible that this plane has been painted with a rooster image, or am I just imagining it? This is surely a typical plane design, right? We can’t come to a consensus on whether this plane is awesome or silly. It must be a terrible plane to fly. Naturally, the pilot of this plane has a vintage costume on. We find this design amusingly silly because of its bright colours. The next design is just as strange, but somehow more secure.
11) Feathered Feats
Nokair Airlines has certainly made a name for themselves with their humorous, animal-themed paint job on their Boeing 737-800. This rooster-themed plane is just one of the many examples of their famous sense of humour. Individuals who have travelled on a Boeing passenger jet know they usually travel at speeds under 1000 miles per hour, making this plane a real rebel. We think this is the most entertaining plane decoration we’ve come across.
12) Maple Marvel
The Royal Canadian Air Force’s Demo Jet is a topic that is worthy of being talked about. The jet, adorned with white and red maple leaves to symbolize the Canadian spirit, is a representation of the spirit of the nation. It was first shown to the public at the 2017 Canada150 Air Show to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the country. The breakneck speed of the CF-18 fighter jet is up to 1,127 miles per hour and you can get a glimpse of it if you are vigilant, but it will not be easy to spot.
13) Out Of The Ocean
The Airbus Paintshop in Hamburg, Germany, crafted one-third of All Nippon Airways’ (ANA) A380 series with a special Hawaiian sea turtle design. ANA was the first client for the Japanese superjumbo, and the image illustrates the ANA A380s about to receive the same Hawaiian sea turtle treatment as the prior two ANA A380s.
The plane is bound for Hawaii, suggesting a Narita-Honolulu route. There will be three shades, apart from the blue of this scheme, the second being green, and the third being orange. The ANA A380 is one of Airbus’ most daring endeavours and painting its 3,600m² surface took 21 days with a remarkable 16 colours.
14) Qantas – Wunala Dream
In order to give recognition and pay homage to the culture and history of the Aboriginal people of Australia, Qantas Airlines elected to paint their aircraft with customary Aboriginal artwork. This undertaking began in 1994, and 3 more planes were adorned with the artworks since then. Both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal artists joined forces to form the intricate and beautiful designs.
15) Delta Airlines – Pink Plane
In the year 2005, Delta Airlines indicated their support for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation by painting their aircraft in the color pink. The foundation’s logo is displayed close to the front of the plane. The company’s assistance doesn’t end there – their staff also don pink uniforms and provide pink-colored items like pink lemonade and pink headsets onboard the aircraft.
16) Eva Air – Hello Kitty
In order to help the waning tourism industry of Taiwan, Eva Air joined hands with the renowned Hello Kitty brand to encourage air travel. Not only are the sweet cats present on the outside of the plane, but they are also displayed on the seating, boarding passes, check-in desks, employee uniforms, and dishes. Yes, the airplane even offers dishes that have been designed to look like Hello Kitty characters.
17) Etihad Airways – Formula 1
In 2009, Etihad Airways sponsored the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix for Formula 1. To honor their commitment, they decorated one of their planes with the signature colors of Formula 1, red, black, and white. Additionally, the tail was painted to look like a checkered flag.
18) Japan Airlines – Disney Jet
Ever since the inauguration of Disneyland Tokyo and Tokyo DisneySea Waterpark, Japan Airlines has been the official associate. Iconic characters like Micky Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy have been featured in the designs of the airline’s aircrafts. In addition, Japan Airlines has announced plans to adorn six more planes with Disney designs.
19) All Nippon Airways – Fly Panda
All Nippon Airlines celebrated 20 years of routes between Japan and China in 2007 by adorning one of its aircrafts with a panda, an animal highly respected in Chinese culture. The plane is still in service and has been aptly named the “Fly Panda” in honor of the occasion.
20) Thai Airways – Royal Barge
To honor the monarchy of Thailand, Thai Airways adorned three of its planes with illustrations of two classic royal boats, one on each side. These old vessels stretch out from the wings of the plane and even have miniature painted figures to incorporate a bit of authenticity and Thai-style building.
21) Swiss Air – San Francisco
In recognition of the launch of its Zurich-San Francisco non-stop service, Swiss Air presented an aircraft with a design inspired by San Francisco. The vivid and bright design included peace symbols, musical notes, love hearts and words in a hippie-style font and tint. It took a total of eight people and three days to finish the painting of the plane.
22) The Incredible Airline
Back in 2018, Alaska Airlines put together a promotional effort that incorporated Inuit art in order to advertise the film Incredibles 2. This advertisement was successful at combining the two aspects of modern culture- superheroes and Inuit artwork. Sadly, some elders were angered by the portrayal of an Inuit hero in the ad.
23) Pokémon Airlines
Ever since the 1990s, people have been eagerly awaiting the Pokémon-inspired plane. Finally, in 1998, the aircraft took off and created quite the sensation. ANA went on to craft a second Pokémon plane due to its immense popularity. Although these planes are no longer in use, the joy they brought will never be forgotten.
24) Light Up The Sky
Icelandair Stopover, the airline from the north, decided to display the northern lights on one of its planes. Iceland, the place which is the habitat of this breathtaking natural phenomenon, was delighted to have it celebrated in this manner. The design on this plane is likely to be remembered as one of the finest ever created. Tourists should not forget to bring their Poke balls before boarding the plane!
25) Having A Whale Of A Flight
When people think of planes with art on them, they usually envision animals such as eagles and tigers. However, the paint job on this particular aircraft is unique, with a Beluga whale depicted. Can you spot the noteworthy likeness? The person who created this design clearly saw the large size of the plane and thought it was fitting to adorn it with the greatest living creature on Earth – the Beluga whale – to go with the world’s largest commercial airplane.
26) Versailles In The Sky
When it comes to private aircraft, some of the most visually appealing and original designs exist. If you’re aiming to draw the attention of the affluent and renowned, you’ll have to make sure to capture their gaze. An azure backdrop with airborne blossoms produces an ideal romantic getaway. This is the perfect manner in which to transport yourself on a daring journey.
27) Digital Aces
Despite being adversaries in the Cold War, the United States and Russia have been carefully assessing each other’s military progress. The top photograph illustrates the Russian Su-57 and the bottom photograph gives a glimpse of the F-16 of the U.S. Air Force. Even though the two countries maintain a distant relationship, they usually dedicate considerable funds to the military research of each other. Even the colors of the paint on the aircrafts are visible to the intelligence agencies of both nations.
28) Big Plane, Big Cat
Rossiy Airlines collaborated with the Amur Tiger Center to put up this remarkable monument to the brave beast. The iconic image of the Amur Tiger is painted onto a huge Boeing 737 exactly as you would expect. The amount of paint used to complete the task reveals the sheer magnitude of it. Of course, all the painting was done by hand.
29) Jackson Pollock’s Plane
This jet is certainly not your typical private aircraft. The M3 Charter Jet features a green backdrop with multicolored spots – yellow, red, blue, and black – that looks just like a Jackson Pollock painting. If you ever take a flight on this plane, you won’t soon forget it! Soon, you’ll have the chance to…
30) Flying Droids
To honor Anakin Skywalker’s trusty sidekick, R2D2, from the Star Wars saga, a full-sized aircraft was created exclusively for All Nippon Airways. An imaginative artist made sure the plane resembled the famous little droid from the movies. Although Star Wars devotees will have to remain patient for their own aircraft, this one is a definite success.
31) To Infinity, And Beyond!
Everyone was thrilled when the iconic Buzz Lightyear character came alive and soared through the air, thanks to the collaboration between Pixar and China Eastern Airlines. Passengers of the Toy Story movie were given customized boarding passes, which added an extra layer of fun to the journey. Having a keepsake of this amazing trip is an excellent way to remember it.
32) Super-Fast And Fizzy
Even though the Concorde was a potentially dangerous aircraft, its alluring façade made it seem non-threatening. Pepsi managed to gain extensive attention from this situation. The Concorde was only capable of reaching a speed of 1.7 Mach if it was painted white, but the Pepsi plane was enveloped in a considerable amount of blue paint, which limited its speed.
33) Air New Zealand ‘Lord of the Rings’
After the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy came to theaters, many people made trips to New Zealand in recognition of the Academy Award-winning movies. The country’s main airline, Air New Zealand, added to the enthusiasm by having LOTR-themed planes and a flight safety video featuring the film’s actors in their respective roles.
34) KLM Delft
Delft, a city in the Netherlands, has become famous for its unique blue-and-white pottery. As a sign of respect, KLM, the country’s national airline, decorated some of its planes with the iconic pattern.
35) Nok Air – Bird
Nok Air is based in Thailand and its moniker comes from a Thai word that translates to “bird.” To honor this, all of its aircrafts feature artwork that makes them appear like birds. The beak is painted on the nose and the remaining body is painted in different colors and designs to resemble feathers.
36) Nok Air – Birds
Nok, a budget-friendly airline based in Thailand, made the creative decision to paint their planes with vibrant designs that look like birds. This eye-catching view is amusing to observe while standing on the ground, and it also answers the funny question of “Is it a bird or a plane?” (Yes, it is both!).
37) Fastest Eagle Alive
Oregon National Guard has embellished one of their F-15E fighter planes with an attractive artwork of a bald eagle, which is a symbol of the state’s natural grandeur. This fighter jet is renowned for its powerful operation and attack abilities. It was initially introduced in 1972, and it is still in active use by both the U.S. Air National Guard and the U.S. Air Force.
38) Talk About “Royal” Air Force
Oregon National Guard has decorated one of their F-15E fighter jets with a stunning illustration of a bald eagle, which is a sign of Oregon’s natural grandeur. This fighter plane is acclaimed for its remarkable performance and attack potential. It was initially brought into service in 1972 and is still being used by both the U.S. Air National Guard and the U.S. Air Force.
39) Talk About “Royal” Air Force
Oregon National Guard has adorned one of its F-15E warplanes with a stunning painting of a bald eagle, which is a representation of the grandeur of the state. This fighter jet is known for its fantastic capabilities and offensive power. It was first launched in 1972 and is still in regular use by the U.S. Air National Guard and the U.S. Air Force.
40) Grinning Horror
It is evident that a considerable amount of jet fuel was consumed before this strange painting was produced. We know this aircraft to be a Short SC-7 Skyvan 3-100, but the rest is up to speculation. We believe this is the most atypical plane paint job we have ever seen and we must commend the artist for their imagination. Moreover, the opening in the front is intended to be an integral part of the artwork.
41) The Vintage Throwback
This remarkable paint job on the Hog was meant to honor the aircrafts used in WWII. We can’t help but marvel at the artistry placed on this powerful weapon of destruction, which is capable of leveling entire regions in a flash. Looking at the intimidating facade of the Warthog, armed with its high number of barrels, even the fiercest of enemies will flee in terror.
42) Landing In Disneyland
This aeroplane, constructed in honor of Alaska’s chilly atmosphere, is much slower than a normal plane. It serves as a great advertisement for the state and will surely make anyone pondering a trip to the icy terrain have a deeper look into it. The inclusion of the husky at the helm is a terrific illustration of the aviators guiding the craft.
43) A National Symbol
Those who have a fondness for Peter Pan will be delighted to learn that his beloved fairy Tinkerbell is now capable of flight! This marvelous flying apparatus is a joint undertaking between Disneyland and Alaska Airlines. People who witness this extraordinary artwork will be eager to go to Disneyland, and children will be clamoring to get on the plane.
44) Sportwear Liftoff
The Gulfstream G550 is a luxury private jet that comes with a hefty price tag, even without the unique Nike livery. Owning a jet of your own is an incredible experience, and this one sports a stunning navy blue and cyan pattern that is mesmerizing. It is difficult to find a paint job as captivating as this one.
45) The Patriotic Ones
Southwest Airlines has achieved something remarkable – they have decorated one of their aircrafts with the Colorado banner! Individuals who dwell in Denver will now have the chance to display their loyalty for the state while they are going by plane. The plane’s design is attractive and will make any voyager pleased to be a part of it.
46) The Airforce Is Strong
The three planes of All Nippon Airways that were adorned with Star Wars droid designs have been a huge success! Many people may be attracted to fly with this airline after seeing the aircrafts that are styled after R2D2, BB-8, and C3PO. Anything that has the Star Wars logo printed on it is likely to entice customers, and who would not want to fly on an aeroplane that has the theme of Star Wars? We are already making plans to board a flight with this concept. Another air carrier is next in line.
47) Hungarian Air Force Mi-24V Hind
The Mil Mi-24 is a large attack chopper created to give considerable firepower while needing minimal carrying and transport amount. There are also the Mi-35 and Mi-25, which are foreign forms of the same model.
It is unknown whether the painting of this plane, which may be an example of military excellence or a demonstration of military carelessness, is an exaggeratedly humorous or intimidatingly threatening look. Every detail has been adorned to look like a raptor. This is the only plane of its kind that has ever been airborne.
48) Royal Netherlands F-16 Fighter Jet
Our luck was in as we were able to record the aerobatic team of the Royal Dutch Air Force flying the F-16 planes. In addition to that, they also displayed the AH-64D Apache Solo Display Team and the AH-64 Apache. The F-16 in the picture is a great case of an electrifying show, coloured in its traditional orange. Unfortunately, we had not been given the opportunity to witness the Dutch team’s performance before they ended their career. Nevertheless, we have some amazing helicopter designs available!
49) The Duracell Plane
Duracell, the famous battery company, partnered with Toys for Tots to spread the word about bringing power to kids’ toys. The C-130 Hercules plane was used to advertise this campaign, with the load of AA batteries displayed in the photo. It’s important to note that the AA batteries were not the fuel for the plane, though they are much loved. The C-130 Hercules plane has an amusing battery theme that stands out, as well as a strong military theme which makes for a powerful design.
50) Digital Russians
Russian artistry is difficult to match when it comes to the fashionable style. This particular digital-camouflaged look has become one of the most popular military designs. Those familiar with the United States Air Force’s designs might remember this painting on an F-16 from a while ago, making a fascinating reference. There is no need to be too judgmental of the USAF for insufficient creativity considering the Sukhoi Su-57 was almost copied from the F-22 Raptor. Now, transitioning from swift to electric.
51) Sci-Fi Spaceship
During the 2016 NATO Tiger Meet in Zaragoza, Spain, an exceptional aircraft was presented and given the Best-Looking Tiger Aircraft Award. The “Tiger Hind” displayed a design of the alien from the movie Alien with a cyborg jaguar and it was equipped to be used in combat, which is not often seen with these types of creations.
52) Disco In The Sky
Clay Lacy Aviation has created the “SexyJet”, a flashy Gulfstream GV that changes color. This plane was designed for the elite, with a spacious galley, private restroom, power outlets for electronics, and a variety of hot and cold snacks. It contains two Rolls-Royce engines and is tailored for the wealthiest 1% of people in the world. When you see it, you won’t be able to believe your eyes.
53) US Airways – Arizona Cardinals
In 2006, U.S Airways honored the Arizona Cardinals by decorating the exterior of their plane with the company’s well-known red bird logo on both sides. Doesn’t it look appealing?
54) Lufthansa – Football Nose
During the 2006 World Cup in Germany, Lufthansa decided to show their enthusiasm by decorating 40 of their aircrafts with a painted soccer ball on the front of their noses.
55) Aeroflot – Olympics
In 2008, the Russian airline company Aeroflot chose to mark the country’s Olympic team with a special livery on one of its planes. This plane flew back and forth between Moscow and Beijing carrying Russian athletes, dignitaries, and other important individuals for the Olympics. The plane was decorated with a red and silver pattern that was identical to the uniforms worn by Team Russia.
56) South West Airlines – SI One
In 2009, Bar Rafaeli, a renowned supermodel, marked her cover appearance in the Sports Illustrated swimsuit edition by having an artist paint her portrait on the side of a South West Airlines plane. She was shown wearing nothing but her two-piece bathing suit, and the plane flew from New York to Las Vegas before the airline repainted the aircraft later in the year.
57) Malaysia Airways – Hibiscus
Back in 2005, Malaysian Airlines decided to give two of its Boeing 747s a distinctive design by painting them with a pattern of red Hibiscus flowers, which are the nation’s national flowers. Unfortunately, the aircrafts were reverted to their original colors in 2008 and this remarkable design no longer exists.
58) Singapore Airlines – Tropical Megatop
During the latter part of the 1990’s, Singapore Airlines decided to give two of their Boeing 747’s a distinctive painting known as the “Tropical Megatop” in order to advertise their new first class and business class services. Sadly, Singapore Airlines flight 006, one of the aircrafts painted with the “Tropical Megatop” design, crashed in Taiwan on its way to Las Vegas, resulting in the death of 83 passengers on board. As a result of this incident, the other plane was immediately repainted, and the “Tropical Megatop” no longer exists.
59) Air France – Pepsi
There is no doubt that the Concorde is a very impressive feat of modern aeronautics. It has had many eye-catching colour schemes over the years. In 1996, Pepsi changed its image and collaborated with Air France to promote the company. The whole plane was painted blue and had the new Pepsi logo until 2003 when it was changed.
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