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Livery of the Week: Etihad’s Superhero 787

Etihad Airways has revealed the first-ever Warner Bros. World-branded Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner, featuring iconic characters.

Filip Kopeć
Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

An Etihad Airways Boeing 787 Dreamliner featuring the Warner Bros. livery at Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi (Photo: Etihad)

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. 

Last year, Etihad announced the extension of its partnership with Warner Bros. World.

The first-ever Warner Bros. World™-branded aircraft was unveiled on July 25 at an event held at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. This launch marked a major milestone in the largest collaboration between the theme park and Etihad Airways.

As part of this initiative, an Etihad Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner now features a livery showcasing iconic Warner Bros. characters. One side highlights Looney Tunes and Tom & Jerry, while the other celebrates DC Super Heroes, bringing a touch of animation magic to the skies.

The aircraft, registered A6-BMA, is not a new addition to the carrier’s fleet. Delivered to Etihad Airways in 2018, it was repainted in 2024.

Etihad Airways Boeing 787 Dreamliner featuring the Warner Bros. livery at Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi (Photo: Etihad)

More Than a Livery

Meanwhile, Etihad Airways is enhancing the travel experience for its youngest passengers with the introduction of Warner Bros. World™ Kids Packs on long-haul flights. Designed for children aged 10 and under, these packs are filled with engaging activities, encouraging creativity and fun throughout the journey. Infants will receive a DC Super Hero-themed soft blanket, while older kids can look forward to a branded backpack, superhero cape, water bottle, and activity kit.

In addition, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi is set to unveil an exclusive children’s lounge within the Etihad Airways Lounge at Zayed International Airport. This unique space will immerse young travelers in the world of Warner Bros., creating a theme park-inspired atmosphere before takeoff.

The Bigger Picture

The aircraft is not the first in Etihad’s fleet to receive a special livery. The airline has formed significant partnerships in recent years, many of which have been commemorated with special aircraft liveries for aviation enthusiasts to enjoy. Among them are multiple Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft celebrating collaborations with the F1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the movie “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One,” and Manchester City F.C.

This new design will hold a special place in the hearts of many—both young and old. As Etihad Airways Chief Executive Officer Antonoaldo Neves stated:

“Building on the strong reputation we have built as a family-friendly airline, we’re thrilled to take our partnership with Warner Bros. World to the next level. Our Looney Tunes and DC Super Hero-themed aircraft will take our brands to destinations worldwide, promoting one of Abu Dhabi’s many attractions. We look forward to welcoming more and more visitors inspired to visit our home, Abu Dhabi, and, in particular, delighting our Little VIP guests while they journey with us.”

Looking for a new airplane model? Head over to our friends at the Midwest Model Store for a wide selection of airlines and liveries.

Filip Kopeć

A passionate aviation enthusiast that started off his career as an aerospace engineer, but found his true calling on the commercial side of the airline business. Now as a finance guy among avgeeks and an avgeek among finance guys, he has experience working in the Revenue Divisions of three airlines. In his spare time he enjoys traveling, but admittedly sometimes is more about the journey than the destination.

Frontier ‘Stands Ready to Engage’ With Spirit

During a recent earnings call, Frontier’s leaders say they are ready to move forward with the company’s latest proposal to purchase Spirit.

Ryan Ewing
Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

Frontier A321neo
A Frontier A321neo. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)

Frontier’s leaders say they are ready to move forward with the company’s latest bid to buy Spirit. Last week, the carrier detailed another proposal to purchase Spirit, which filed for bankruptcy last year.

As part of the deal, Frontier offered the issuance of a $400 million principal amount of debt and 19% of the carrier’s common equity to holders of Spirit’s secured notes. In its proposal, Frontier added that a combination with Spirit would bring “unmatched benefits.”

During Frontier’s fourth-quarter earnings call on Friday, CEO Barry Biffle said the airline “stands ready to engage” with Spirit regarding its latest offer.

“Our proposal offers more value than Spirit’s stand-alone plan,” he said. “This includes substantial value for equity holders who will otherwise receive nothing through Spirit’s plan with the bankruptcy court.”

Another Attempt

January’s proposal isn’t the first time Frontier has tried to buy Spirit. The two airlines attempted a $2.1 million deal in 2022. Then, in late 2024, both airlines reengaged in merger talks, which ultimately fell through.

Spirit filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in November 2024.

“ We obviously know Spirit very well and are prepared to move quickly to engage to make this compelling opportunity happen,” Biffle added. He also noted that the combined airlines would “enhance” the travel experience for consumers and offer better career opportunities for team members.

Ryan Ewing

Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.

TSA Staff Can’t Take Federal Buyouts

Workers at the Transportation Security Administration are not allowed to participate in early buyouts offered to the federal workforce.

Ryan Ewing
Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

TSA checkpoint
A TSA checkpoint. (Photo: Shutterstock | David Tran Photo)

Workers at the Transportation Security Administration are not allowed to participate in early buyouts offered to the federal workforce. According to a Bloomberg report, agency leadership told employees they were exempt two days after the Jan. 28 “Fork in the Road” email.

It’s been reported that around 20,000 federal workers have opted in to the buyouts, representing 1% of the federal workforce – excluding the military, the U.S. Postal Service, and a few other categories. Employees who do not accept the buyouts could be terminated.

“Today, DHS Acting Under Secretary for Management provided updated guidance that TSA employees are not allowed to participate in deferred resignation,” the TSA administrator’s office stated in an email to agency employees that was viewed by Bloomberg.

The agency also said it would work with employees who already accepted the offer. TSA workers are exempt because they are part of national security, one official added.

This move comes as buyouts and a federal hiring freeze have created uncertainty within aviation-related agencies. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy recently clarified that air traffic controllers and other safety-related positions at the Federal Aviation Administration are exempt, even after workers received buyout offers.

Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency team plan to “plug in” at the FAA to rapidly modernize systems, Duffy said.

Ryan Ewing

Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.

Breeze Adds Three New Cities, 19 Routes

Breeze Airways has announced it is offering service in three new cities along with adding 19 new routes to its network later this year.

AirlineGeeks.com Staff
Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

Breeze A220
A Breeze A220 aircraft. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)

Breeze Airways has announced it is offering service in three new cities along with 19 new routes to its network.

According to a news release from the Utah-based low-cost carrier, Breeze will add service to Rochester, New York; Albany, New York; and Memphis, Tennessee, beginning this spring.

Additionally, the carrier added 19 new routes. 13 of these are nonstops and six are BreezeThru routes with one-stop and no plane change.

“We experienced incredible growth in 2024 thanks to our amazing partners in the cities we serve and the hard work and dedication of our Team Members across the U.S. and we look forward to continuing that momentum this year,” said Breeze Airways CEO David Neeleman, in the release. “We see great demand and opportunity for our premium product offering in secondary markets across the country and are excited to add Rochester, Albany and Memphis to our network.”

New Routes

The airline’s new routes include:

  • Akron-Canton, Ohio, to Los Angeles (starting May 22).
  • Albany, New York, to Charleston, South Carolina (starting June 13); Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina (June 5); and Fort Myers, Florida (June 5).
  • Burlington, Vermont, to Charleston, South Carolina (starting May 30).
  • Fort Myers, Florida, to Greenville-Spartanburg, South Carolina (starting May 1); and Albany, New York (June 5).
  • Los Angeles to Akron-Canton, Ohio (starting May 22).
  • Memphis, Tennessee, to Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina (starting May 9); Tampa, Florida (May 7); and Providence, Rhode Island (May 9).
  • Orlando, Florida, to Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina (starting May 9); and Rochester, New York (May 9).
  • Pensacola, Florida, to Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina (starting April 30); and Providence, Rhode Island (April 30).
  • Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Greenville-Spartanburg, South Carolina (starting May 1).
  • Portland, Maine, to Columbus Ohio (starting May 2); and Greenville-Spartanburg, South Carolina (May 1).
  • Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina, to Albany, New York (starting June 5); Memphis, Tennessee (May 9); Orlando, Florida (May 9); Pensacola, Florida (April 30); and Rochester, New York (May 9).
  • Rochester, New York, to Charleston, South Carolina (starting May 8); Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina (May 9); New Orleans, Louisiana (May 8); and Orlando, Florida (May 9).
  • Westchester County, New York, to Greenville-Spartanburg, South Carolina (starting May 2).

AirlineGeeks.com Staff

AirlineGeeks.com was founded in February 2013 as a one-person blog in Washington D.C. Since then, we’ve grown to have 25+ active team members scattered across the globe. We are all here for the same reason: we love deep-diving into the fascinating realm of the airline industry.

Avianca Plans Seasonal U.S. Route

With this new service, the Latin American carrier will add over 1,000 seats per week in the U.S. and El Salvador market.

Ryan Ewing
Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

An Avianca A320 in Miami (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)

Avianca is set to resume a seasonal route to the U.S. this summer. With this new service, the Latin American carrier will add over 1,000 seats per week between the U.S. and El Salvador.

Beginning on June 3, the airline plans to add flights from El Salvador International Airport to Chicago O’Hare. Flights will operate three times per week on a 180-seat Airbus A320 aircraft during the summer months.

“We are excited to strengthen connectivity between Chicago and San Salvador, a vibrant destination rich in culture, history, and natural beauty,” said Rolando Damas, Avianca’s sales director for North America, Central America, Europe, and the Caribbean, in a news release. “This route will not only benefit Salvadorans traveling to the U.S. but also open new opportunities for visitors from Chicago and beyond to explore everything El Salvador has to offer.”

The Chicago-to-San Salvador route will operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Avianca also flies from O’Hare to Bogota, Colombia; Guatemala City; and San Jose, Costa Rica.

Avianca last served the San Salvador-to-Chicago market in 2018, per Cirium Diio schedule data.

Ryan Ewing

Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.

United Phases Out ‘Her Art Here’ Liveries

After around five years, United is set to phase out the “Her Art Here” liveries on two Boeing 757-200 aircraft. The special liveries were unveiled in 2019.

Ryan Ewing
Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

A United 757-200 adorned with a 'Her Art Here' special livery. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)

After around five years, United is set to phase out the “Her Art Here” liveries on two Boeing 757-200 aircraft. The special liveries were unveiled in 2019.

The initiative invited female artists based in the U.S. to design a special paint scheme for the aircraft. Two winning designs were later chosen and displayed on the aircraft.

The winners, Corinne Antonelli and Tsungwei Moo, were selected to design the liveries. Antonelli, a New Jersey native, used her design to showcase the New York region’s iconic landmarks, including the Manhattan skyline and Statue of Liberty.

United’s ‘Her Art Here’ 757 aircraft (Photo: United)

Moo, based in California, brought the Golden State’s vibrancy to life with her artwork. The New York/New Jersey design adorns N14102 and the California design is on N14106.

According to the United Fleet Website, the airline has ferried both 757s to Amarillo, Texas, for repainting into the standard “Evo Blue” design. N14102 left the paint shop on Wednesday, while N14106 remains in Amarillo.

United did not say why the liveries were being updated.

Ryan Ewing

Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.

FAA Drops Flight Arrival Rate at Reagan National

The Federal Aviation Administration is further reducing flight arrival rates at Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C.

AirlineGeeks.com Staff
Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

Aircraft at DCA
Aircraft landing at Reagan National Airport (Photo: Shutterstock | Ceri Breeze)

The Federal Aviation Administration is further reducing flight arrivals at the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Washington, D.C.

In an email sent to AirlineGeeks on Thursday, the FAA stated it is slowing traffic into and out of the airport due to weather conditions and recovery efforts in the area following last week’s deadly aircraft collision over the Potomac River.

Two of the airport’s three runways have been closed while recovery crews operate in the river, impeding hourly flight arrivals.

According to a Bloomberg report, the FAA is further reducing the number of hourly arrivals from 28 to 26 to help ease the strain on air traffic controllers at the airport. The changes are expected to increase average flight delays from 40 minutes to 50, according to an email sent by the regulator and reviewed by Bloomberg.

Reagan National is typically limited to 60 slots for arrival and departure per hour – 37 of which are designated to air carriers and 11 for commuter and regional carriers. Others are for general aviation traffic, which are rarely used.

AirlineGeeks.com Staff

AirlineGeeks.com was founded in February 2013 as a one-person blog in Washington D.C. Since then, we’ve grown to have 25+ active team members scattered across the globe. We are all here for the same reason: we love deep-diving into the fascinating realm of the airline industry.

South Korea Orders Nationwide Bird Detection Systems

Following the deadly Jeju Air crash that claimed 179 lives, South Korea is mandating bird detection radars and thermal imaging cameras.

Tolga Karadeniz
Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

A Jeju Air 737-800 in Seoul. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | Ben Suskind)

In the aftermath of the devastating Jeju Air accident on December 29, 2024, which claimed 179 lives, South Korean officials have unveiled a plan to bolster aviation safety nationwide. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport announced Thursday that all airports will be mandated to install advanced bird detection systems, including thermal imaging cameras and radars, to prevent future bird strike incidents.

The accident involved a Boeing 737-800 en route from Bangkok to Muan, South Korea. The aircraft, carrying 181 passengers and crew, attempted an emergency landing at Muan International Airport after reportedly encountering a bird strike. During the landing, the plane’s landing gear failed to deploy, resulting in a belly landing. Subsequently, the aircraft overran the runway and collided with a concrete embankment that supported navigation equipment.

Investigations into the crash revealed that both of the plane’s engines contained bird remains, specifically feathers and blood identified as belonging to the Baikal teal, a species of migratory duck. This finding strongly suggests that a bird strike was a significant factor contributing to the accident. However, the investigation faced challenges as the flight data and cockpit voice recorders ceased functioning approximately four minutes before the crash, leaving a critical gap in the data needed to determine the exact sequence of events leading to the disaster.

Government Mandates Advanced Bird Detection Technology at Airports

In response to these findings, the ministry stated, “All airports will be equipped with at least one thermal imaging camera,” aiming to begin the rollout next year. Additionally, bird detection radars will be installed to enhance early detection of distant birds and improve response capabilities for aircraft.

To further mitigate risks, mobile sonic devices will be deployed to deter medium and large-sized birds. The government also plans to establish a legal basis to relocate facilities that attract birds, such as food waste treatment centers and orchards, away from airport vicinities. New distance restrictions will be imposed on future developments of such facilities.

Deputy Minister for Civil Aviation Joo Jong-wan emphasized, “The top priority is to establish comprehensive reform measures across aviation safety to prevent the recurrence of aircraft accidents.” This initiative is part of a nationwide special safety inspection of airports, coupled with a comprehensive survey of facilities that particularly attract birds.

South Korean and U.S. investigators continue to probe the exact cause of the crash.

Tolga Karadeniz

Tolga is a dedicated aviation enthusiast with years of experience in the industry. From an early age, his fascination with aviation went beyond a mere passion for travel, evolving into a deliberate exploration of the complex mechanics and engineering behind aircraft. As a writer, he aims to share insights , providing readers with a view into the complex inner workings of the aviation industry.

JetBlue Axes Key Northeast Route

In its latest network shake-up, JetBlue plans to discontinue service in a highly competitive Northeast market this spring.

Ryan Ewing
Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

JetBlue E190
A JetBlue Embraer E190. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)

In its latest network shake-up, JetBlue plans to discontinue service in a highly competitive Northeast market. The carrier says the change is part of its JetForward strategy “to build the best East Coast leisure network.”

The airline will end flights between New York LaGuardia and Boston, a spokesperson confirmed to AirlineGeeks on Thursday. This route has operated since 2016 and will end on April 29.

Currently, the carrier flies between the two airports up to six times per day in each direction, per Cirium Diio schedule data.

Rising Costs

JetBlue is citing rising costs for the route cut. “The airport fees charged to JetBlue at LGA have risen sharply—now about $50 per traveler—which make it impossible for us to offer the low fares customers expect while maintaining profitability on this route,” the spokesperson said.

Following the LaGuardia-to-Boston cut, the carrier will offer 13 peak-day departures from the New York airport. JetBlue says it is shifting three takeoff and landing slots at LaGuardia to leisure markets while leasing the remaining three to another airline.

Both American and Delta connect LaGuardia and Boston multiple times per day. JetBlue also serves Boston from its New York-JFK hub.

Ryan Ewing

Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.

BermudAir Adds New Routes With E190

On Thursday, the carrier announced new service to Richmond, Virginia; Providence, Rhode Island; and Montreal, Quebec, starting later this year.

Ryan Ewing
Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

BermudAir E175
A BermudAir E175 aircraft. (Photo: Orlando International Airport)

BermudAir will add three new destinations to its route map later this year. On Thursday, the carrier announced new service to Richmond, Virginia; Providence, Rhode Island; and Montreal, Quebec.

The Bermuda-based airline will offer the only regularly scheduled international service to Richmond and Providence. All routes will be served twice per week.

Providence service begins on May 22, while flights to Richmond start on June 7, and Montreal on June 12. Embraer E175 and E190 aircraft will operate these flights.

“Expanding our network with these new routes underscores our commitment to strengthening Bermuda’s global connectivity,” said Adam Scott, founder and CEO at BermudAir, in a news release. “By adding direct service to these key cities, we’re not only making travel more accessible and convenient, but we’re also positioning BermudAir to serve our customers with even greater convenience, reliability and flexibility.”

Leveraging the E190

Last month, BermudAir said it plans to add two Embraer E190 jets in the spring. These aircraft will join the carrier’s existing fleet of two E175s.

Not only will these new aircraft serve as spares in the fleet, but they will also help bolster the network. This includes additional services to Orlando, Toronto, and Halifax, Nova Scotia later this year.

Ryan Ewing

Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.
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