'Dragonite, use Fly!': China Airlines Pokémon plane blasts off to Tokyo

Taoyuan, April 2 (CNA) The latest Pokémon-themed aircraft from Taiwan's flagship carrier China Airlines (CAL) departed Taoyuan International Airport on Thursday on its maiden flight to Narita International Airport in Tokyo.

The aircraft, first unveiled on Wednesday as the "Pikachu Jet CI2," features Dragonite, a dragon-type Pokémon that is the mascot of Taiwan's Pokémon Center.

Dragonite is imposed on the livery at the tail of the craft, along with other flying Pokémons such as Hoppip and its final evolution, Jumpluff. Pikachu is also prominently featured in the design.

Pokémon elements extend to the cabin interior, appearing on items such as headrest covers, pillowcases, luggage tags, catering tray mats, and both digital and printed boarding passes.

As the franchise originated in Japan, the inaugural flight marked a symbolic return to its home country.

To mark the launch, CAL arranged for costumed staff dressed as Dragonite and Pikachu to greet passengers at the boarding gate, which was also decorated with Pokémon-themed designs.