Air India Express ‘Flying Canvas’ art aircraft lands in Mangaluru, showcasing India’s culture

Air India Express ‘Flying Canvas’ art aircraft lands in Mangaluru, showcasing India’s culture

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Apr 1, 2026: An Air India Express Boeing aircraft adorned with artistic designs landed at Mangaluru International Airport on Monday. The aircraft is part of the airline’s “Tales of India” initiative, aimed at showcasing India’s diverse culture to the world. The Boeing 737-8 (VT-BWV) has been transformed into a “Flying Canvas,” turning it into a moving piece of art.

The concept blends traditional art with modern design, with the goal of converting travel into a dynamic cultural experience. The aircraft operated on the Mangaluru–Mumbai route, with Captain Leonardo Christopher as the pilot and Leon Vass as the co-pilot.

The artwork on the aircraft has been designed by artist Ocean Shiv, and airport officials said it is India’s first fully art-covered aircraft.

Air India Express has been displaying various folk art forms from different states on the tail sections of its aircraft, but the complete exterior artwork on this VT-BWV aircraft makes it truly unique.