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Qantas reveals new logo and typography

Airline Qantas has revealed a new logo for just the fifth time in the company’s history, moving on from the 2007 iteration of the design created by Hans Hulsboch.

The tweaked logo is also accompanied by new typography for what is arguably Australia’s most iconic brand.

How the Qantas livery has evolved over the years

How the Qantas livery has evolved since 1944

According to the airline: “The new design was overseen by Qantas consultant designer, Marc Newson, in partnership with Australian design agency Houston Group.”

Newson said in the announcement: “Aircraft tails are fantastic canvas to work on and the Qantas logo is one of the most recognisable in the world. This re-design aims to retain the fundamental essence of the flying kangaroo but also move the brand forward.

“This new brand is more streamlined and the shading behind the kangaroo gives a better sense of movement and depth. A silver band now extends from the tail to the rear of the fuselage, to give a more premium feel.

“The typography for the word Qantas, which measures almost two metres high on the 787, has been carefully streamlined. And Qantas will appear on the aircraft’s belly, so you can tell when it’s the national carrier flying overhead.”

It would have been unlikely for Hulbosch to be involved in the updated logo, as the agency is now closely aligned with rival airline Virgin Australia.

qantas-livery-details

Speaking at an event to promote the airline’s forthcoming new fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners, Qantas CEO Alan Joyce said: “Since the image of a kangaroo first appeared on a Qantas aircraft more than 80 years ago, it’s come to represent the spirit of Australia. When passengers see the Qantas tail at airports around the world, it’s a symbol of home,” said Mr Joyce.

“We wanted to make sure our brand remained familiar but we also wanted it to be more modern and dynamic, like the 787 and like Qantas.

“When we looked at the history, we found that the logo has been updated around the time of a game-changing new aircraft joining the fleet. It’s a tradition that goes back to the Lockheed Constellation in 1947, the B747-300 in 1984 and the A380 in 2007.

“A fresh brand helps symbolise the new era Qantas is entering as we head towards our centenary. It’s an era of new destinations, new technology and a new standard of service.”

qantas-787-logo

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