Southwest Airlines has unveiled Independence One, a new special livery aircraft created to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States.
The airline said the plane will officially join the fleet on April 29, with its first scheduled flight operating from Dallas to Philadelphia.
The new aircraft is part of a wider America-themed fleet that also includes Freedom One, introduced in 2021, and Liberty One, another newly painted aircraft carrying an American flag design. Southwest said the initiative celebrates the nation’s founding while highlighting the airline’s role in connecting communities across the country.
Independence One features a red, white and blue paint scheme with 1776 written in large quill script. The aircraft also carries the phrase “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” from the Declaration of Independence.
Other design details include 13 stars on the fuselage representing the original colonies, a circle of stars on each engine cowling inspired by the Betsy Ross flag, and a special 1776 tail number. America250 decals also appear on the nose and winglets.
“With our new Independence One and Liberty One aircraft, we honor this important milestone in our nation’s history, and the generations of Customers that Southwest has carried. They join our Freedom One aircraft in uniting families, bringing service members home, flying entrepreneurs chasing an opportunity, and helping communities stay connected,” said Bob Jordan, President & Chief Executive Officer at Southwest Airlines.
“Southwest is proud to be a part of the 250th national celebration and to honor the same spirit of innovation, resilience, and optimism that has shaped our country and our Company,” he added.
Southwest also announced a partnership with America250 as the official airline of America Gives, a national volunteer campaign linked to the anniversary year. The carrier said it will invest up to $250,000 to support nonprofits served by employees and expand volunteer programmes.
The airline said the new commitment builds on more than 180,000 hours of volunteer service completed by Southwest employees in 2025.
“As America marks its 250th anniversary, Southwest Airlines’ legacy of connecting people and communities reflects the spirit of freedom and opportunity that defines our nation,” said Rosie Rios, Chair of America250.
“Through initiatives like Independence One and America Gives, this partnership will help bring Americans together—across cities, states, and generations—in celebration and service.”
Southwest said travellers can look for tail number 1776 throughout the year as the aircraft makes special stops during America250 celebrations.
