Brussels Airlines has unveiled its latest Belgian Icon aircraft, paying tribute to one of Belgium’s most internationally cherished cultural creations: Tintin. The newly painted Airbus A320, registered OO-SNJ, draws inspiration from Hergé’s iconic adventures on the Moon and in space.
The aircraft’s inaugural commercial flight is scheduled for 13 February, departing Brussels Airport for Milan Linate at 10:25am.
A second Tintin tribute takes flight
This is the second Tintin-themed aircraft to join the airline’s Belgian Icons collection, following the success of Rackham, introduced in 2015. That aircraft, registered OO-SNB, was the very first Belgian Icon and remains one of the most photographed planes in the world. It will continue flying in the Brussels Airlines fleet until 2027.
The new design was developed in close collaboration with Tintinimaginatio. Several creative directions were explored before the Moon and space theme emerged as the strongest concept. Instantly recognisable and emotionally resonant, it also connects naturally to aviation through themes of flight, altitude and exploration. Its clean aesthetic ensures a refined and balanced livery.
The final concept features Tintin’s characters floating in weightlessness, creating a dynamic and light visual effect across the fuselage.
“After the incredible success of the first Tintin plane, Rackham, Brussels Airlines decided to continue with the adventure. And we accepted their proposition without any hesitation. We actually see this as the first step towards celebrating the 100th anniversary of Tintin on 10 January 2029,” said Nick Rodwell, CEO of Tintinimaginatio.
A tribute to Hergé’s universe inside and out
The two sides of the aircraft feature different designs, allowing several characters to appear without overloading the visual identity. On one side, Tintin is shown against the Moon backdrop. On the other, Snowy and Captain Haddock take centre stage.
A striking detail appears on the belly of the aircraft: the famous red and white Moon rocket, which will now take off, fly and land “for real”. The background of the livery transitions in a gradient from midnight blue to black, evoking the depths of outer space.
Inside the cabin, the Belgian Icon experience continues. The overhead compartments tell a story through a sequence of visuals resembling comic-book panels, showing the rocket launching from Earth and facing the risk of encountering an asteroid. These scenes are framed by one of Hergé’s handwritten quotes: “By believing in his dreams long enough, Man turns them into reality.”
Passengers will also encounter Tintin, Snowy and the detectives Thomson and Thompson on the bulkheads. Even the digitally printed floor carpet, produced by Lantal Textiles, subtly references outer space. The painting of the aircraft was carried out entirely by Airbourne Colors, a long-standing partner of Brussels Airlines.
Showcasing Belgian creativity worldwide
For Brussels Airlines, the project reinforces its ambition to bring a piece of Belgium into the skies and share the country’s cultural heritage with the world.
“Comic art is an essential part of Belgium’s cultural identity, and Hergé’s work continues to inspire people around the world. It is no coincidence that Rackham was our very first Belgian Icon. With this new aircraft, we deepen that legacy and strengthen our mission to showcase Belgian creativity around the world. We are proud to bring another iconic piece of Belgian culture into the skies and to offer our passengers a unique experience,” said Dorothea von Boxberg, CEO of Brussels Airlines.
With OO-SNJ, the airline expands its Belgian Icons fleet, which also includes Trident, dedicated to Belgium’s national football teams; Amare, created in collaboration with Tomorrowland; and Atomium, unveiled in March 2025.
Previous Belgian Icons have paid homage to René Magritte, the Smurfs and Pieter Bruegel the Elder, turning Belgian art, culture and imagination into flying ambassadors at 35,000 feet.
