Air Italy has unveiled the first aircraft featuring its new livery.

A Boeing 737 Max 8 has been painted with the scheme, which incorporates the maroon shade prominent in the branding of shareholder Qatar Airways.

Air Italy Max 8

Boeing

Air Italy, formerly Meridiana, had only previously shown the livery as a digital mock-up.

In March, the full-service carrier announced that it would be adding five A330-200s and three 737 Max 8s to its fleet as the summer season commences.

Air Italy Max 8

Boeing

The aircraft are being leased from 49% shareholder Qatar Airways as Air Italy embarks on a rapid short- and long-haul expansion programme with Milan Malpensa as its focus.

Flights under the new brand name commenced on 1 March, operated with 737s and Boeing 767s still bearing Meridiana's livery. Those aircraft will be phased out as the leased A330s and 737 Max 8s enter the fleet.

Air Italy Max 8

Boeing

In May 2019, the airline is set to begin receiving Boeing 787s, also leased from Qatar Airways.

Air Italy will have a fleet size of 50 aircraft by 2022, its majority owner Alisarda and Qatar Airways envision.

Source: Cirium Dashboard