All Nippon Airways will introduce a Star Wars livery, with the iconic R2-D2, on its newest aircraft 787-9 Dreamliner to mark the beginning of a five-year agreement with Walt Disney.

This marks the first time a Star Wars character will appear on the exterior of a commercial aircraft.

The R2-D2 design was unveiled to Star Wars fans today at Star Wars Celebration in Anaheim, California, just months prior to the character’s appearance on international flights in autumn of this year.

The Star Wars livery is in line with ANA’s strategy to further enhance its international presence.

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Last spring, the carrier significantly expanded its international flight network from Haneda and Narita airports in Tokyo.

With demand increasing around the world for flights to Japan and routes linking the United States with Asia, ANA is committed to raising the profile of the ANA brand in the global market through innovative partnerships and branding opportunities.

The partnership with Star Wars, beloved by audiences in Japan and around the globe, is a perfect match as Japan’s largest airline seeks to connect travellers around the world through this project.

“We’re excited to be involved in this collaboration with ANA,” said Kayleen Walters, vice president, marketing, Lucasfilm.

“We’re proud of the innovative R2-D2 design, and we look forward to witnessing the first-ever flight of a passenger aircraft featuring a Star Wars character.

“We’re confident that Star Wars fans around the world will absolutely love this design.”

ANA also launched its special website featuring the Star Wars collaboration.

“ANA boasts an extensive international network, along with convenient connections between the US and a wide variety of destinations throughout Asia,” said Takashi Shiki, ANA executive vice president, sales and marketing.

“Although it’s a lofty goal, we hope that like Star Wars, ANA will become well known and loved across all borders and generations.

“The R2-D2 motif works well with ANA’s blue logo design on the aircraft’s fuselage, and many people associate R2-D2 with competent and reliable service.

“We are particularly delighted to introduce this collaboration now as we prepare to launch our new international service from Tokyo to Houston in June, making it our tenth North American destination.

“Through the introduction of the new Star Wars livery we hope to welcome more passengers from around the world to experience ANA as the Inspiration of Japan.”