Bringing ‘paper planes’ to life
Led by the Aerospace Technology Institute and backed by the UK Government, FlyZero was intensive research project seeking to deliver zero-carbon emitting aircraft by 2030.
To elevate the project outcomes beyond raw technical studies, FlyZero partnered with Orson Associates to refine the aircraft exteriors, develop a coherent and flexible visual identity spanning livery and interiors, and deliver a suite of assets that communicated the project’s values and achievements in ways that would resonate within the team and with the general public.
This investment in high quality visual storytelling, spanning still images, movies and physical models, materially amplified FlyZero’s impact. By turning complex engineering into an accessible and emotionally compelling vision of future flight, the project reached far beyond specialist audiences, strengthened its influence on policy and funding decisions, and helped establish a shared narrative that continues to shape the UK’s aviation decarbonisation agenda.
Services
Brand development
Livery design
Digital asset creation
Physical mock-up
Awards
Silver medal for major contributions to the advancement of aerospace art, science and engineering
Concept exploration
Livery and Styling
The concept aircraft space is highly competitive with established players and start-ups alike vying for the attention of investors, engineers and the public. As such, It was critical that the designs were technically credible, impactful and inspiring.
Adjustments to the external surfaces were light and respectful of performance impact. The livery balanced the identities of the stakeholders, was adaptable to the diverse airframes and spoke to the futuristic and clean character of each aircraft.
External styling
Livery concepts
FlyZero livery
Worldbuilding
Showing the aircraft in context provides the viewer with an immediate sense of how these unfamiliar concepts will inhabit their world. Each image also delivers a precisely crafted narrative, bringing particular aspects of each aircraft’s mission and capabilities into focus.
Airport operations
LHR to SFO with H2
Short-haul mainstay
Regional connectivity
Lining up at LHR
Physical assets
Detailed scale models and printed mementoes. Critical assets for engaging industry and rewarding the project team.
“Working with Orson Associates, FlyZero created a look and feel for the project’s three concept aircraft which reflected an aspirational vision for zero-carbon emission air travel.”
Chris Gear
Project Director, FlyZero
