United Unveils Patriotic Livery and Military Pilot Hiring Milestone

United Airlines has unveiled a new specialty "Stars and Stripes" livery to mark America's 250th anniversary, alongside a milestone in its military pilot hiring programme that has seen nearly 600 active-duty pilots transition to the airline since 2024.

The livery, featuring a red, white, and blue design with 50 stars and diagonal stripes, will appear this summer on a US-built Boeing 787-10 and Boeing 737-800, both painted in Amarillo, Texas. Each aircraft will carry a commemorative plaque honoring United's active-duty service members and veterans.

US Secretary of Transportation Sean P. Duffy joined United CEO Scott Kirby and members of the airline's Veterans' Business Resource Group at Washington Dulles International Airport to mark the occasion.

"Today, we proudly employ more than 8,300 military veterans, of which 1,500 are active members of the National Guard and Reserve forces. Our 'Stars and Stripes' livery pays tribute to their service to our country that continues to make America strong," said Kirby.

The United Military Pilot Program offers active-duty and active reserve military pilots a conditional First Officer job offer well in advance of their transition out of service, provided they are more than 12 months from their availability date and a minimum of 12 months from separation. The programme has placed nearly 600 pilots since 2024, with 500 more expected by the end of 2027. United currently employs more than 18,000 pilots, including over 4,500 veterans.

The airline also supports veterans through its United for Veterans resource group, flight support for memorial visits, and partnerships with organizations including the USO and the Fisher House Foundation, for which United has provided more than 16,000 flights to military families.