AMSTERDAM — Using AkzoNobel’s aerospace coatings on one of its new A220-300 aircraft, airBaltic is flying the flag to celebrate Latvia's 100^th anniversary.

The special project was carried out in Magnetic MRO's paint hangar in Tallinn, Estonia, before the eye-catching artwork was gifted to the nation during an official ceremony at Riga Airport.

"We're proud to see our industry-leading exterior paint system used for such a striking design to mark such a special occasion in the history of Latvia," said John Griffin, Global Director of AkzoNobel's Aerospace Coatings business. "The livery looks amazing and is a fantastic example of how our customers share our passion for paint."

Added Rihards Priedkalns, Magnetic MRO Aircraft Paint Shop Manager, "It took 15 professional painters 1,000 hours to create the one-off livery, which honors Latvia's red and white flag. It's an honor for us to present it to the nation and be part of such an historic event."

More than 250 liters of AkzoNobel aerospace coatings were applied to create the design. The high-performance system included the 4101 Alumigrip primer — which uses non-chromate pigments to provide corrosion protection — as well as the company's leading basecoat/clearcoat system, Aerodur 3001/3002. The President of Latvia, Raimonds Vejonis, accepted the aircraft livery on behalf of the nation.

Commenting on the special occasion, Andris Vaivads, DT Technical Department of airBaltic, said, "We are delighted and honored to present a unique gift to Latvia on its centenary, which is a historical event for every Latvian. Now the flag of Latvia will proudly wave above our heads high in the skies and travel around the world. We are very pleased with the outcome, which was ensured thanks to high-quality products provided by AkzoNobel, and we are looking forward to future cooperation."