As a seasoned gamer who has spent countless hours navigating virtual worlds, I must say that this latest development in the realm of real-life experiences takes the cake (or rather, the apple juice). The Hello Kitty-themed Boeing 777 by EVA Air is an absolute game-changer!
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In just the past week, Hello Kitty, who turns 50 on November 1, has teamed up with McDonald’s for a Happy Meal collaboration with Yu-Gi-Oh, a shoe line with Katy Perry, strawberry-flavored Goldfish snacks, and even her own Boeing 777 aircraft.
On Thursday, EVA Air’s Hello Kitty-themed Boeing 777-300ER, affectionately named “Besties”, made its debut at Chicago O’Hare airport. Upon arrival, it was welcomed with a traditional water salute as it docked at the gate. The interior was a pink wonderland filled with adorable decorations, complete with cake and apple juice for passengers to enjoy. This marks the fourth iteration of the Hello Kitty plane, a collaboration between EVA Air and Sanrio that has spanned nearly 20 years. Negotiations between the two began in 2005, with the first aircraft landing in the U.S. in 2013.
In addition to the widely recognized character, created by her designer who confirms she’s not a cat, but a girl, My Melody and Kuromi bunnies are also prominently showcased in the Besties theme. This theme has replaced the “Shining Star” livery of the Little Twin Stars on an Eva Air plane, marking its first full-stocked Kitty aircraft landing in the United States since before the COVID pandemic. Upon boarding, passengers are immersed in a charming world designed around this theme, with details integrated into headrests, slippers, custom place settings, and even kids’ meals that have also gained popularity among adults. According to Eva Air president Clay Sun, this theme is equally enjoyed by both children and adults.
A model plane and a 3D puzzle round out the merch in the duty-free shop, with more Sanrio-EVA co-branded items on the way. “Besties” will fly Taipei-Chicago three times per week (every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday during the summer schedule and Monday, Wednesday and Friday in winter).
Currently, Eva Air offers four Hello Kitty Jet routes. The Clark, Philippines route is operated by Black Penguin Bad Badtz-Maru Travel Fun, while Celebration Flight and Joyful Dream showcase Hello Kitty. On the Bali and Cebu routes, Little Twin Stars and golden retriever Pom Pom Purin take turns flying. If you don’t get a Special Livery Jet, the in-cabin amenities still carry the Hello Kitty theme, ensuring a themed onboard experience for all. By year’s end, two more planes will join the fleet, but they will only serve in Asia. Eva Air North America operates 87 flights per week.
Hello Kitty first appeared in 1974 on a humble vinyl coin purse. Today, her merchandise can be found in 130 different nations, contributing to Sanrio’s staggering $3.8 billion in annual global retail sales. Various licensing agreements have expanded the brand from Crocs and Igloo coolers to sports giants like Adidas, Puma, Vans, and Converse, as well as major leagues such as the MLB and NBA.
If you’re unable to fly with Hello Kitty and her friends, make your own charming adventure at home! Check out the trendy Sanrio merchandise available for purchase below.
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2024-08-31 04:55