While Star Alliance livery is typically white with a black tail fin, we asked if we could do something a little different and inverse the colours to celebrate how important black is to Air New Zealand and New Zealand.
Star Alliance Vice President for Alliance Development and Communications Siu Ling Fock says, “as the largest and longest-running airline alliance in the world, Star Alliance honours each of our 26 member airlines’ distinct heritage, character and style. From sports jerseys to gumboots, black is embedded in New Zealand’s national identity and worn with pride, so it’s fantastic to welcome this aircraft with its special black livery into our fleet.
“Travel demand is showing no signs of slowing down anytime soon, so we’re excited that these aircraft will help add much-needed capacity on our domestic routes – they won’t be sitting on the tarmac for long!
New aircraft being painted
The new aircraft, which can seat up to 217 customers, will be one of three A321neos to join the airline’s fleet in the coming months, helping get customers to where they need to be in time for the busy Christmas and holiday period. We know the significance of the colour black to New Zealanders, so we were happy to agree when Air New Zealand proposed to launch the first-ever all-black aircraft with Star Alliance livery.
“Since Air New Zealand joined us as a member in 1999, we’ve been proud to have them be a part of the Star Alliance network that flies people to destinations all over the world, from Canada to Croatia, and Turkey to Thailand.”
The airline’s newest A321neo will sport a one-of-a-kind look – a jet black Star Alliance livery.
The aircraft will fly on the airline’s domestic network, so there will be plenty of opportunities for Kiwi plane spotters to see the unique livery.
“We are proud that this special domestic A321neo will soon be flying customers from our fellow Star Alliance members across Aotearoa.”
Air New Zealand’s Chief Transformation and Alliances Officer Mike Williams says the A321neo is the world’s first black Star Alliance aircraft.
Another A321neo, painted in Air New Zealand’s classic black and white livery, is expected to arrive in September. All member airlines include Star Alliance livery to mark and promote Star Alliance in their respective fleets. Air New Zealand has an average fleet age of 7.3 years, making it one of the world’s youngest and most efficient fleets. Black is an iconic Kiwi colour.
“Kiwis missing the Koru need not look too far – our iconic mangōpare will feature on the wingtips in this one-off design.”
As Air New Zealand reveals its world-first Star Alliance livery, kiwis will see a new star in the sky over Aotearoa.
It is expected to touch down in November after making the 17,825km journey from the Airbus factory in Hamburg in Germany, through Muscat, Kuala Lumpur and Cairns, before arriving in Auckland.
Written by: Jill Walsh
