China Airlines’ New Pikachu Jet CI2 Takes Flight Today

Taiwan’s China Airlines has unveiled its latest special livery aircraft—and it’s one that aviation enthusiasts and Pokémon fans alike won’t want to miss.

The new Pikachu Jet CI2, painted on an Airbus A350-900 registered B-18916, officially enters service today, marking the next chapter in the airline’s growing collaboration with the Pokémon franchise.

A Striking Design Featuring 13 Pokémon

Unlike many novelty liveries, the Pikachu Jet CI2 has been carefully crafted as a full-aircraft design concept.

China Airlines describes the aircraft as a “canvas,” with:

• Flowing colourful cloud patterns across the fuselage
• A total of 13 Pokémon characters featured throughout the design
• A theme of companionship and travel, symbolising Pokémon “soaring through the sky” alongside passengers

The result is a visually dynamic aircraft that stands out even among today’s increasingly creative airline liveries.

More from Pikachu on China Airlines. pic.twitter.com/uptRZ6hyuY

— Fahad Naim (@Fahadnaimb) April 1, 2026

Launch Routes: Taipei To Tokyo… And Beyond

The Pikachu Jet CI2 begins operations on one of East Asia’s busiest and most popular routes:

• CI100 / CI101
  Taipei – Tokyo Narita
  Operating every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday

This makes Tokyo Narita an early hotspot for enthusiasts hoping to catch the aircraft in action.

From April through October 2026, the aircraft is also scheduled for long-haul deployment:

• CI022 / CI021
  Taipei – Seattle
  Operating every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday

This dual deployment gives spotters in both Asia and North America a chance to log the aircraft—particularly appealing given the relatively small number of A350 special liveries worldwide.

A Successor To The Popular CI1

This new widebody follows the success of the airline’s earlier Pikachu Jet CI1, which debuted in 2022 on an Airbus A321neo.

While the original aircraft brought Pokémon-themed travel to short- and medium-haul routes, the new CI2 significantly expands the concept—bringing the colourful branding to long-haul and high-profile international services.

The move also reflects a broader trend among airlines using special liveries not just for marketing, but to create memorable onboard experiences.

A Growing Trend Of Themed Aircraft

A Scoot Pokemon 787 jet

China Airlines is not alone in embracing themed aircraft, particularly in Asia. From Pokémon jets in Japan to Hello Kitty aircraft in Taiwan, airlines are increasingly blending aviation with pop culture.

However, the scale and execution of the Pikachu Jet CI2—on a modern long-haul aircraft—sets it apart.

For enthusiasts, it represents:

• A rare combination of flagship aircraft and special livery
• Strong photographic appeal thanks to its vibrant colours
• A clear example of how airlines are enhancing the passenger experience beyond the cabin

Have you seen or photographed the new Pikachu Jet CI2 yet? Share your sightings in the comments—and let others know where to catch this unique A350 in action!