Korean Air has unveiled a new livery following its acquisition of Asiana. The design, dominated by shades of blue, has sparked debate, with some finding it modern and sleek, while others consider it uninspired and forgettable. Is this a refreshing update or a missed opportunity to create a distinctive brand identity?

A New Look for Korean Air: Modern Blue Takes Flight

After a four-year process, Korean Air's takeover of Asiana Airlines is complete, signaling a new era for the carrier. Along with this merger comes a significant change: a brand-new livery, revealed on a Boeing 787-10 (HL8515).

From Red and Blue to...Just Blue

The new design marks a departure from Korean Air's traditional colors. Key changes include:

• "KOREAN" in larger font: The aircraft's side now prominently displays "KOREAN" instead of "KOREAN AIR."
• Monochromatic blue palette: The livery features various shades of blue, eliminating the use of red.
• Curved lines: A curved line replaces the straight line that previously separated the blue from the white.

The tail is expected to feature Korean Air's updated logo, which also embraces a two-tone blue design.

Is it a Hit or a Miss?

While the new livery aims for a modern aesthetic, initial reactions have been mixed. Some find the design sleek and appreciate the updated shade of blue. However, others argue that it lacks originality and blends in with the growing number of airlines adopting similar styles.

• The old vs. the new: The previous livery was considered timeless and classic by some.
• Aviation geek perspective: While liveries may not directly drive ticket sales, branding matters, and aviation enthusiasts tend to have strong opinions on aircraft design.

Community Reactions

Online forums and social media have been buzzing with opinions. Some sample comments include:

• "Looks like NORSE"
• "The curved blue line looks far too similar to KLM for me"
• "Unimaginative it may be, but, so far, I like it!"
• "It looks unfinished."

Bottom Line: Time Will Tell

Korean Air's new livery is a bold step towards modernizing its brand. While the design may not be universally loved, it represents a significant shift for the airline as it integrates Asiana. Only time will tell if this new look will resonate with passengers and aviation enthusiasts alike.