Editor’s Note: AirlineGeeks is proud to present our ‘Livery of the Week’ series. Every Friday, a team member will share an airline livery, which can be from the past, present, or even a special scheme. Some airline liveries are works of art. The complexity associated with painting around critical flight components and the added weight requires outside-the-box thinking from designers. The average airliner can cost upwards of $200,000 to repaint, creating a separate aircraft repainting industry as a result.
Have an idea for a livery that we should highlight? Drop us a line.
Etihad Airways’ livery, known as “Facets of Abu Dhabi,” was introduced in 2014. Designed by Landor Associates in collaboration with Etihad, the livery draws inspiration from the airline’s Emirate home.
A Palette Inspired by the Desert
The most striking aspect of the design is its color scheme. It features a gradient of golden hues, reflecting the various shades of sand found across the UAE’s deserts, from the darker sands of the Liwa desert to the lighter tones of the north. The updated livery was unveiled on the carrier’s first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.
The livery also incorporates a geometric diamond pattern that adorns the fuselage. This pattern is inspired by traditional Emirati design motifs and the modern, geometric shapes found in Abu Dhabi’s architecture.
A Cohesive Brand Identity
The “Facets of Abu Dhabi” livery extends beyond the exterior of the aircraft. The color scheme and geometric shapes are echoed in Etihad’s cabin interiors and other branding elements, creating a unified brand experience for passengers.
Etihad’s livery is a distinctive and memorable design. It stands out with its unique color palette and geometric elements. The design has been praised for its elegance and its successful representation of Abu Dhabi’s culture and landscape.
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