Hawaiian Airlines Unveils Moana-Themed Livery Ahead of Live-Action Film Release

On June 11, Hawaiian Airlines rolled out the first of three aircraft liveries inspired by Disney’s upcoming live‑action film Moana, set to hit U.S. theaters on July 10, 2026. The new design appears on an Airbus A321neo (registration N227HA) and signals the airline’s commitment to pairing its heritage with the film’s adventurous spirit.

The livery showcases a stylized hawk that represents Maui, framed by blue swirls that echo ocean currents. Hawaiian Airlines’ logo is joined by the phrase “Voyage beyond the reef” and the Moana logo along the side and on the engines. A prominent fishhook motif – Maui’s signature weapon – is also featured, while the cabin’s overhead bins display characters such as the Kakamora, Hei Hei, and Pua. Managing director of Hawai‘i Marketing Alisha Onishi said the design reflects the airline’s long‑standing tradition of navigation and its goal of bringing the film’s spirit to passengers.

The rollout will continue in July with two additional liveries. A trans‑Pacific A330 will carry one of the new designs, and a Boeing 717 used for inter‑island flights will display the third. Hawaiian Airlines has recently introduced other Disney‑themed liveries, including those for The Mandalorian, Grogu, and Toy Story 5, underscoring a sustained partnership with Disney’s live‑action strategy.

Moana is a live‑action reimagining of the 2016 animated film. It is directed by Thomas Kail and produced by Dwayne Johnson, Dany Garcia, Beau Flynn, Hiram Garcia, and Lin‑Manuel Miranda. Executive producers include Kail, Scott Sheldon, Charles Newirth, and Auliʻi Cravalho. The film stars Catherine Lagaʻaia as Moana and Johnson as Maui. Original songs are written by Miranda, Opetaia Foaʻi, and Mark Mancina, who also composed the score.

Disney’s marketing campaign for the film includes AMC theater treats such as a glow‑in‑the‑dark Heart of Te Fiti bag charm. The airline livery, along with other promotional items, is intended to build anticipation for the July release.

The collaboration between Hawaiian Airlines and Disney demonstrates how airlines can leverage popular media franchises to enhance brand visibility. By aligning its livery with a culturally significant film, the airline reinforces its image as a carrier rooted in Hawaiian heritage and navigation traditions.

As of now, the first livery is visible on the A321neo and will be followed by the A330 and Boeing 717 designs in July. No additional marketing partnerships have been announced. The film will open in U.S. theaters on July 10, 2026.

In summary, Hawaiian Airlines’ Moana livery rollout is a coordinated effort to promote the upcoming live‑action film while celebrating the airline’s cultural identity. The project will culminate with the full suite of liveries in July, coinciding with the film’s theatrical debut.