World Cup plane lifts off from Teesside

A Teesside-based aircraft painting specialist has helped kick off this year’s FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour after completing a high-profile aircraft repaint at Teesside International Airport.

Airbourne Colours transformed an Airbus A320-233 operated by Titan Airways into the official plane for the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour by Coca Cola, applying its distinctive red livery at the company’s Teesside facility.

The aircraft departed the airport before beginning its global journey in Saudi Arabia on January 3, carrying the 18-carat gold trophy across 75 destinations worldwide. 

Cities already visited include Vienna, Seoul, Tokyo, Nha Trang and Kuala Lumpur, with the tournament set to take place from June 11 to July 19 this summer across Canada, Mexico and the United States.

The contract marks another major project for Airbourne Colours, which delivers specialist aircraft painting services for airlines and operators around the world.

Steven Darbyshire, chief executive of Airbourne Colours, said: “It’s always an honour to be trusted with painting the special livery for the World Cup Trophy Tour, and we’re incredibly proud to play a role in such a global celebration of football.

“Delivering a project of this scale is only possible thanks to our team’s skill and dedication in creating intricate, eye-catching‑ aircraft liveries, along with the invaluable support of our partners at Titan Airways, Willis Aviation Services and Teesside Airport.”

Airbourne Colours recently expanded its Teesside operations, opening a second 27,000sq ft facility and creating new jobs as it strengthens its position in the global aviation market.

Teesside Airport managing director Phil Forster added: “This is a fantastic showcase for both Teesside Airport and Airbourne Colours.

“To see an aircraft painted here take off on a worldwide tour carrying one of the most recognisable trophies in sport underlines the capability and expertise we host.  

“Airbourne Colours has made a big commitment to Teesside Airport and this is another great example of the kind of high quality, global work now happening here day in, day out.”

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen added: “To have Teesside and Airbourne Colours chosen for the painting of the Trophy Tour plane is a massive honour and another remarkable achievement for our brilliant airport.

“Airbourne Colours has been an outstanding addition to Teesside – creating jobs and welcoming aircraft from around the world.

“Seeing work carried out here going on to support a global event watched by billions shows just how far our airport has come – and the quality of businesses we have on site.”

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