Could the Star Wars hype be any bigger?
Following the release of the latest installment in the space-opera franchise, Japanese carrier All Nippon Airways has announced a themed fleet of Star Wars aircraft. The first to debut will be an R2-D2–liveried Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, painted to resemble the beloved droid.
Built by Boeing at its Everett, Washington facility, the Dreamliner rolled out in mid-December. It will not carry passengers immediately; its inaugural passenger flight is scheduled to operate from Tokyo to Vancouver on October 18.
ANA plans two additional special liveries. In spring 2016 a Boeing 777-300 painted to evoke the BB-8 droid from the newest film will enter service. Later in the year, the airline will add a Boeing 767-300 featuring a hybrid design that merges elements of the first two Star Wars planes.
These promotional aircraft are part of a broader partnership that celebrates the franchise through unique liveries and onboard touches meant to surprise and delight fans while maintaining full compliance with safety and operational standards. The eye-catching designs also reflect a trend among airlines to create memorable brand experiences through special liveries and collaborations.
Passengers flying on these aircraft can expect the visual experience of Star Wars-themed exteriors and select interior elements tailored to the collaboration. While schedules for themed flights are announced in advance, specific cabin features and in-flight surprises may vary by aircraft and route.
As the fleet rolls out, enthusiasts and travelers alike will have several opportunities to see these aircraft in service on international routes. The R2-D2 Dreamliner’s October flight will be the first chance for the public to experience the droid-painted airliner in regular passenger operations.
These liveries combine modern aircraft engineering with popular culture design, offering both aviation fans and Star Wars followers a unique way to engage with the franchise. By applying distinctive paint schemes to high-capacity, long-range aircraft like the 787-9, 777-300 and 767-300, ANA aims to generate excitement and strengthen its brand visibility worldwide.