I Flew the New Disney-themed ‘The Princess and the Frog’ Plane—Here’s What It Was Like

It was a joyful celebration at Portland International Airport (PDX) on April 25 as Alaska Airlines unveiled its newest Disneyland Resort-themed livery.

The Boeing 737-800's exterior design is inspired by the Walt Disney Animation Studios’ movie “The Princess and the Frog” as well as Disneyland Park’s Tiana’s Bayou Adventure ride. The goal of the livery was to bring “Princess Tiana’s story to life in the skies” and to celebrate “the spirit of adventure and dreaming big.”

The new plane marks the airline’s ninth collaboration with the Disneyland Resort and is the first to feature a Disney Princess. Previous livery collaborations include Mickey’s Toontown Express plane and a Star Wars-themed jet to commemorate the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge.

The Princess Tiana livery was in development for 18 months and took a skilled team of artists more than 2,000 hours to paint. The colorful plane and intricate design bring the spirit of the bayou and Tiana to life “paying homage to her inspiring story.”

Riders will spot familiar faces from the film and attraction. In addition to Princess Tiana, characters depicted on the plane include the jazz-loving Louis the Alligator, Prince Naveen, and even Mama Odie on the winglet. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure’s adorable critters are also adorning the plane. Other touches include a whimsical trail of friendly fireflies and water lilies.

Similar to a ride at Disneyland, the plane even has an official name: Tiana's Bayou Adventure Flyer.

“Every journey should be as magical as the destination, and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Flyer brings that wonder to the skies in a way that perfectly complements our commitment to creating remarkable journeys,” Eric Edge, vice president of brand and marketing at Alaska Airlines, said in a release shared with Travel + Leisure. “This aircraft captures Princess Tiana’s love for exploration and adventure, inspiring our guests to embrace new possibilities and create memories along the way.”

The plane, tail number N596AS, is now part of Alaska Airlines’ route network for the next several years, with stops in Santa Ana, California, just minutes from the Disneyland Resort. And once onboard, guests can purchase an exclusive Tiana’s Bayou Adventure snack pack.

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Flyer has launched just in time for the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. Kicking off May 16, 2025, and running through summer 2026, it will see the addition of limited-time entertainment, décor, themed food and beverages, and festivities that honor “seven decades of happiness.” And once there, guests can experience Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, an exhilarating water-based attraction that continues Tiana’s story of perseverance.