Alaska Airlines is joining forces with Hawaii-based illustrator Shar Tuiʻasoa of Punky Aloha Studio to design a special-edition aircraft.
The unique design will celebrate the airline’s more than 15 years of service to the islands while also honoring Hawaiʻi’s Pledge To Our Keiki, a commitment made by the local students to respect and care for the land, ensuring future generations can continue to appreciate all Hawaii offers.
The aircraft design is scheduled to be revealed later this year.
Tuiʻasoa, an illustrator and author celebrated for her striking and modern graphic style, draws inspiration from her Polynesian heritage and has previously collaborated with notable brands like Amazon, Disney, Target, AT&T and Sephora.
“I’m excited to partner with Alaska Airlines to design a powerful message in a unique way to a global audience,” Tui’asoa said in a news release. “I’m honored to draw inspiration from our keiki (children) who have pledged their commitment to mālama ‘āina (care for the land) and hope that the end result will motivate others to do the same.”
Alaska’s employee-led Pacific Islander Alliance championed Tuiʻasoa’s work, recognizing her as a skilled artist who proudly represents Hawaiʻi and Pacific Islander culture.
Daniel Chun, Alaska Airlines’ Hawaiʻi director of sales, community, and public relations, also shared enthusiasm for collaborating with another local artist.
“It’s our goal to not just paint an airplane, but to carry the message about being a mindful traveler and invite our guests to join us in caring for Hawaii and the many places we live and fly,” he said.
IN PARTNERSHIP with Hawaiʻi non-profit Kanu Hawaii, Alaska Airlines signed the Pledge To Our Keiki last year, inviting residents and visitors alike to give back during their time in the Islands.
Its first Hawaiʻi-themed airplane, “Spirit of the Islands,” was created in 2013 after hosting a statewide “Paint-the-Plane” contest for local students in partnership with the Hawaiʻi State Department of Education and Hawaiʻi Association of Independent Schools.
The winning design, selected from over 2,700 submissions, was crafted by Honolulu high school junior Aaron Nee and portrayed Hawaiʻi’s cultural diversity.
Recently retired, the “Spirit of the Islands” plane had flown throughout Alaska’s route network for nearly a decade.
