R2-D2 takes to the skies with ANA’s new Boeing Dreamliner 787-9

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R2-D2 ANA Jet
R2-D2 ANA Jet

Star Wars and aviation geeks converged on Boeing’s Everett Factory this morning for the unveiling of the R2-D2 jet, a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner custom painted for Japan’s All Nippon Airways.

The jet’s livery is the first of three planes that ANA plans to decorate with Star Wars characters. The next two planes will feature BB-8, the new droid from Star Wars: The Force Awakens and another rendition of R2-D2.

The R2-D2 jet is scheduled to begin service in October on ANA’s international routes with the additional two planes going in to service in November and March 2016. Fans and travelers will be able to see the plane’s schedules on ANA’s website.

Stormtrooper security was tight as the Boeing Paint Hangar door opened
Stormtrooper security was tight as the Boeing Paint Hangar door opened
The Boeing paint crew looking somewhat Imperial
The Boeing paint crew looking somewhat Imperial
R2 and C-3PO admire Boeing's handiwork
R2 and C-3PO admire Boeing’s handiwork

Check out the gallery for more photos from the festivities.

If you are curious about how large aircraft like this get painted, Boeing provided a time-lapse video of them decorating the R2-D2 jet.

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