Argentine national airline unveils Messi-themed plane for World Cup

Dhaka: Argentine flag carrier Aerolíneas Argentinas has unveiled a special livery aircraft themed around the national football team and its captain, Lionel Messi, ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The aircraft, dubbed "#TheMostArgentinePlaneInTheWorld," was presented at Hangar 5 of Ezeiza International Airport on May 21. The design prominently features the number 10, the Adidas-developed official jersey, and three stars representing Argentina's three World Cup titles.

Additional design elements include a captain's armband over the engines and a tail design symbolizing leadership — a visual metaphor linking Messi's on-field role to the rudder that steers the aircraft.

The repainted jet is an Airbus A330-202, registered LV-KAN, which Aerolíneas Argentinas currently operates on lease. Interestingly, the airframe was originally delivered to TAP Air Portugal — the flag carrier of Portugal, the home country of Messi's long-time rival, Cristiano Ronaldo.

The airline announced special flights to Kansas City and Dallas, the two US cities where Argentina will play its group stage matches. It will also increase Buenos Aires–Miami service to daily flights, operating both day and night departures during the tournament period.

Miami is expected to serve as a major hub for Argentine supporters, given its strong connectivity to other US cities and its popularity among Argentine travelers.

The plane will operate on international routes across the Americas and Europe, carrying the national team's image to various destinations throughout the tournament.