United Airlines Continental Heritage Jet
United Airlines still maintains one aircraft in a Continental heritage theme. Prior to Continental’s merger with United, the airline had painted a Boeing 737-900 in their “Blue Skyways” paint scheme to celebrate the airline’s 75th anniversary back in 2009. Since then, the airline repainted the original special-schemed 737-900 in standard colors. However, the original retro jet was repainted. Today, United still maintains a retro-Continental jet, flying as tail number N75436.
United’s 85th Anniversary Tribute A320
In 2011, United held a poll for employees to select a specially-painted retro jet to commemorate United’s 85th anniversary. The winning scheme was the “Friendship” livery from the 1970s. The design still flies today, eight years and a merger later.
Special schemes join United’s New Livery
Earlier this year, United Airlines introduced their new livery as part of an effort to move past the merger of Continental and United back in 2011. The updated scheme is more of an evolution than a completely new scheme.
What’s next?
Your guess is as good as ours. Many avgeeks would love to see a Saul Bass Tulip livery on a new 787 or 777-300er. While many rumors have come and gone, United has not committed to the special scheme. United has reported strong profits. And they have made concerted efforts to strengthen both the airline’s culture and service recently. Additional special paint schemes that celebrate the airline’s heritage and commitment to its people are possible.
