THOMSON AIRWAYS AIRLINES TIME-LAPSE VIDEO 

Thomson Airway Time-lapse Video

It was great to be contacted by a new client Thomson Airways, to produce a time-lapse of an aircraft repaint. Thomson Airway is the world’s largest charter airline and a very prestigious brand. Thomson Airways wanted a video that would showcase and launch their exciting new livery paint scheme. Vivid like a good challenge.

Challenge Accepted

So the challenge began, organise multiple camera’s, clamps, cards, timers, controllers and power. Then to arrange clearance at the airport and to allow much preparation detail as possible from the production team at Air Livery. We have worked with Air Livery for some time, so we are very familiar with the respray process.

Thomson Airways old livery – Day 01

This was the first Thomson aircraft to be repainted in their new livery scheme was a Boeing 767-300. This is a sizeable aircraft and the repaint schedule was 12 days, so the Manchester based production team got to it.

The Process

It always amazes me, the speed at which these huge planes can be stripped down and repainted, yet this is a very complex procedure with extremely strict guidelines. In 12 days time this aircraft has got to fly as well as look great, so was another aspect of the challenge.

The process includes the following:

• Plane input
• Scaffolding dock
• Paint stripper
• Sanding
• Prep for painting
• Primer
• Paint scheme application
• De-mask
• Prep for output
• Scaffolding de-dock
• Plane output.

The production process was as smooth as clock work. After 12 days, I am sure you will agree, it looks fantastic. It reminds me a bit of a Dolphin, with the curves and the shades of blue over the fuselage.

Thomson Airways G-OBYG prior to unveiling

Spot of Tilt-shift anyone?

Even though we were in the midst of producing the time-lapse video, there’s always time for a bit of creativity. I must admit I am a bit of fan of tilt-shift photography. So here’s a ‘creative’ view of the finished aircraft.

Can’t resist a bit of tilt-shift.

Beautiful Manchester Weather

As she was towed out of the hangar, seeing daylight for the first time, we couldn’t have asked for a better day. The sun was shining and the clouds were fluffy. The day before was torrential rain! Well I suppose that’s Manchester weather for you.

Thomson Airways 767-300 G-OBYG in stunning new livery

If you would like to read Thomson’s own blog, please visit Thomson’s Airlines blog. If you would like to find out more about Vivid’s time-lapse video production service, please visit our time-lapse production page.