When it comes to movie marketing, we often see the same tactics: a viral trailer, a fast-food drink cup, or a limited-edition sneaker release. However, sometimes a studio creates a promotion that feels more like a cultural celebration than just a marketing stunt.

Disney’s live-action remake of ‘Moana’ will be released in theaters on July 10, 2026, and excitement is building. But the most stunning part of the summer isn’t the movie itself; it’s an airplane.

Hawaiian Airlines has unveiled the first of three specially designed planes for the upcoming live-action Moana. Although airlines have worked with film franchises before, this partnership feels unique.

The collaboration is based on shared traditions. For an airline that honors Pacific navigation—the same wayfinding skills that guide Moana across the ocean—this is more than just branding. It pays tribute to the spirit of adventure that both the airline and the story represent.

Inside the ‘Voyage Beyond the Reef’ Experience

The first plane to receive the transformation is an Airbus A321neo, and the design is nothing short of spectacular.

• The Exterior: The fuselage features Maui’s iconic, legendary fishhook, instantly recognizable to any fan of the franchise.

• The Cabin: Step inside, and the immersion continues. Passengers will find thematic touches throughout the cabin, featuring fan-favorite characters like Heihei the chicken, Pua the pig, and the hilariously mischievous Kakamora.

According to the airline, this is just the beginning. Two more aircraft—an Airbus A330 and a Boeing 717—are set to debut their own unique Moana liveries in the coming weeks, ensuring that travelers across the Pacific can fly alongside their favorite characters.

 

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The ‘Moana’ Live-Action Evolution

As we gear up for the July 10 release, the excitement is mixed with a healthy dose of curiosity. Can a live-action adaptation capture the magic of the 2016 animated classic?

Disney seems to be pulling out all the stops to ensure the answer is a resounding “yes.”

• The Cast: Catherine Laga’aia takes the helm as Moana, bringing a fresh, vibrant energy to the role.

• The Returns: We’ve already confirmed that Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is reprising his role as the demigod Maui—this time in person, not just in voice. Perhaps most excitingly, the recent trailer confirmed the return of Jemaine Clement as the scene-stealing coconut crab, Tamatoa.

• The Vision: With Auli’i Cravalho (the original voice of Moana) serving as an executive producer, the project is clearly being handled with deep respect for the source material.

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Why This Matters

Some fans have questioned the need to remake a film less than a decade old. However, by leaning into partnerships that celebrate the culture and geography of the story—like this beautiful collaboration with Hawaiian Airlines—Disney is doing more than just selling tickets. They are anchoring the film in its cultural roots.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the 2016 original or a newcomer ready to be swept away by the beauty of Motunui, there’s no denying that the promotional campaign for Disney’s ‘Moana’ is setting a high bar.

As the countdown to July 10 begins, one thing is certain: the call of the ocean is getting louder. Will you be answering it in a theater, or maybe even at 30,000 feet?

 

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Are you excited for the live-action Moana? Have you spotted the special aircraft yet? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!