DesignAir

08/16/2026

Designing beyond the logo, livery and screen

The article discusses the complexities of airline branding compared to digital platforms like Instagram. Airlines must create tangible experiences beyond visuals, requiring agencies to focus on multi-sensory identities that resonate with passengers in physical environments, emphasizing depth and consistency....

https://thedesignair.net/2026/08/16/beyond-logo-design-and-digital/

07/26/2026

Air New Zealand’s new 777 interior reveals aviation’s growing sameness problem

Air New Zealand has chosen a familiar Business Class seat for its refurbished Boeing 777s, utilizing Collins Aerospace’s Elevation platform. As airlines converge on similar premium features, the challenge lies in creating a distinct passenger experience through design, service, and atmosphere, moving beyond hardware to foster strong brand identity....

https://thedesignair.net/2026/07/26/air-new-zealand-new-777-interior-reveals-growing-sameness/

07/07/2026

STARLUX's AIRSORAYAMA project represents a unique collaboration with artist Hajime Sorayama, merging luxury, innovation, and authenticity, establishing an enduring livery that resonates with cultural relevance beyond typical airline marketing....

https://thedesignair.net/2026/07/07/beyond-the-paint-starluxs-airsorayama-livery-project/

07/02/2026

When luxury becomes ordinary: Has Emirates exposed aviation’s next design challenge?

Emirates has long been a leader in luxury air travel, redefining premium experiences with its iconic features. However, as the aviation industry adopts similar design principles, the challenge becomes creating distinct experiences. Emirates’ new lounge reflects this shift, emphasizing the need for airlines to forge unique identities rather than relying on universal luxury elements....

https://thedesignair.net/2026/07/02/has-emirates-exposed-aviations-next-design-challenge/

07/02/2026

Has Hawaiian Airlines just reinvented the airline alliance livery?

Hawaiian Airlines recently revealed its new oneworld aircraft, albeit without the physical presence of the plane due to painting delays. The subtle addition of the Hawaiian phrase "Aloha a puni ka honua" signifies a cultural embrace that challenges traditional airline alliance designs, promoting authenticity while announcing alliance membership. This shift opens up broader discussions on how airlines can express identity through more than just aesthetics....

https://thedesignair.net/2026/07/02/has-hawaiian-airlines-reinvented-the-airline-alliance-livery/

06/22/2026

Malaysia Airlines has big ambitions. The goal? To become one of the world's top 10 airlines within the next five years.

So, can its brand-new Airbus A330neo Business Class help get it there?

From private suites with doors and stunning mood lighting to authentic Malaysian dining, excellent hospitality and one of the most impressive cabin transformations we've seen from the airline in years, we put the new flagship through its paces on a 10-hour flight from Kuala Lumpur to Auckland.

The verdict? Malaysia Airlines has come a long way... but the journey isn't over yet.

🎥 Watch our full review now and let us know what you think of the new A330neo Business Class.

We're back and this time with a brand new video flying ...

05/30/2026

Aircraft Design Innovations: The Shift from Seats to Social Spaces

Premium aviation is evolving as airlines enhance business class experiences with luxury features while simultaneously optimizing cabin space for profitability. The OMNIA concept challenges traditional layouts by integrating flexible social hubs, fostering passenger interaction. This shift emphasizes the creation of memorable experiences over mere seat comfort in order to differentiate airlines in a competitive market....

https://thedesignair.net/2026/05/30/aircraft-design-innovations/

05/16/2026

Aeroméxico’s New Salones Premier Reflect a More Considered Vision of Contemporary Mexico

Aeroméxico's newly renovated Salones Premier at Mexico City International Airport reflect a shift towards a culturally rooted aesthetic, designed by Gensler. These lounges prioritize atmosphere over clichés, featuring art and local inspirations like Xochimilco. While operationally premium, there remains a disconnect between lounge design and onboard experience, signaling potential for future coherence....

https://thedesignair.net/2026/05/16/aeromexicos-new-salones-premier-reflect-a-more-considered-vision-of-contemporary-mexico/

05/15/2026

Etihad’s latest amenity kits head in the right direction

Etihad Airways has revamped its Business Class amenity kits by introducing destination-inspired designs and a partnership with Laneige, shifting focus from luxury branding to its own brand identity. This reflects an effort to enhance passenger experience through collectability and cohesive storytelling, indicating a broader trend in premium aviation branding....

Explore Etihad Airways' new Destination Collection amenity kits, blending thoughtful design with travel-inspired visual storytelling.

05/08/2026

Emirates flies the flag, but does it miss a design opportunity

Emirates recently showcased a bold display of national pride by adorning an Airbus A380 with the UAE flag, reinforcing unity amidst regional challenges. Alongside this initiative, the airline announced a significant staff bonus, reflecting its confidence and stability in a sensitive industry. While the design has its critiques, the message of resilience is clear....

https://thedesignair.net/2026/05/08/emirates-flies-the-flag-but-does-it-miss-a-design-opportunity/