United celebrates America with custom 250th anniversary livery and military pilot hiring program milestone

 United unveiled a new specialty "Stars and Stripes" livery that celebrates the nation's 250th anniversary and announced a milestone to the airline's United Military Pilot Program, an initiative that provides currently serving active-duty U.S. military pilots access to a conditional job offer with the airline much earlier than they were previously afforded. Since 2024, nearly 600 military pilots have transitioned to United through the program, with 500 more expected by the end of 2027.

To celebrate America's 250th anniversary, United's new specialty livery takes to the skies this summer on a U.S.-built Boeing 787-10 and Boeing 737-800. Painted in Amarillo, Texas, the bold red, white and blue design features 50 stars representing states across the country, while diagonal red and white stripes reflect the energy and momentum of a nation always moving forward. Both aircraft will include a commemorative plaque dedicated to United's active-duty service members and veterans who have selflessly served our country. 

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean P. Duffy and United CEO Scott Kirby were joined by United employees, including those from United's Veterans' Business Resource Group, and local dignitaries at Washington Dulles International Airport to celebrate America's 250th anniversary and the airline's pilot hiring milestone.

"America is the greatest country in the world, and we're proud to play a role in celebrating our nation's 250th anniversary," said Kirby. "For 100 years of that history, United has been a pioneering U.S. company, investing in people and communities across the country. Today, we proudly employ more than 8,300 military veterans, of which 1,500 are active members of the National Guard and Reserve forces. Our 'Stars and Stripes' livery pays tribute to their service to our country that continues to make America strong."

"It's great to see United join this administration's call to celebrate America's historic birthday," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. "This patriotic design will remind the American people of the many freedoms we enjoy and how lucky we are to be part of the Great American Experiment!"