40 special paint jobs airlines have put on planes to advertise Pokemon, call attention to special causes, and generate nostalgia

Airlines paint select aircraft in special paint jobs, known as liveries, which are themed and often promote a partnership, honor a past, or express an airline's values.
The decorative paints break up the monotony of modern-day "Eurowhite" paint jobs that lack in color and creativity.
Common themes for special liveries include retro paint jobs, sports partnerships, employee appreciation, and national or hometown pride.
Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories .

In the current age of aviation, it's hard for airlines to stand out as most aircraft look the same to the average traveler.

Long gone are the days when colorful aircraft roamed the skies as airlines have largely adopted paint jobs with little creativity centered around predominantly white fuselages. The style is referred to as "Eurowhite" since the trend began with European airlines and largely dominates the continent today.

Most recently, Europe's Lufthansa and Aer Lingus are in the midst of brand refurbishments that have taken away the colors on their aircraft that the airlines are known for.

The costs associated with a rebranding mean that an airline can go with the same identity for decades without making a change, though they can take one airplane and give it an entirely new look that makes it stand out among the competition.

Special liveries have been used by airlines for a variety of reasons including airline allegiances, brand partnerships, national pride, and paying tribute to an airline's heritage. The often intricate paint jobs give travelers a reprieve from the monotony of air travel while acting as a flying billboard for those on the ground below.

Take a look at the usage of special liveries by today's airlines that give more color to the skies.

See the rest of the story at Business Insider