The latest livery pays homage to the classic Tintin two part story Destination Moon and Explorers on the Moon. Aficionado’s will immediately identify these as the books in which Tintin, Captain Haddock, Professor Calculus, and Snowy become the first to walk on the lunar surface. Almost two decades after the story started running in the Belgian Tintin magazine, a certain astronaut team led by Neil Armstrong would follow in their footsteps.
Both sides of the aircraft feature distinct imagery from both books. The lefthand side depicts Tintin floating in weightlessness with the moon painted near the rear. The other side showcases Tintin’s trusted companion Snowy and, shall we say, “almost-as-trusted-companion” Captain Haddock. Our favorite detail however is somewhat hidden. On the aircraft’s belly, the iconic red and white checkered moon rocket is painted. Whoever made that design call, we’re saluting you with a virtual “chef’s kiss”. Topping it all off is the signature of Hergé, the creator of Tintin, decorating both engine cowlings.
