Southwest Unveils Independence One Livery for America's 250th Anniversary

Southwest Airlines unveiled a new special livery April 27 at an event in Dallas, featuring a Boeing 737 MAX 8 registered N1776R and named Independence One. The aircraft marks the airline's participation in celebrating the United States' 250th anniversary alongside Southwest's own 55th anniversary.

Patriotic Design Takes Flight

The livery showcases red, white and blue coloring with "1776" in giant quill script and the phrase "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." Thirteen stars represent the original colonies, while engine cowling stars mimic the Betsy Ross flag style. The aircraft begins service April 29, 2026, with a maiden flight from Dallas to Philadelphia.

This unveiling expands Southwest's fleet of themed aircraft, joining Freedom One and the newly repainted Liberty One. A partnership with America250 accompanies the launch, including a grant program for employees and nonprofits. Southwest CEO Bob Jordan and U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy attended the unveiling ceremony.