(Photo provided by Air China)

A Beijing Expo-themed color-sprayed airplane used to celebrate the countdown to the Beijing International Horticultural Exhibition left Beijing for London on March 31.

The Airbus A350-900 run by Air China is the third of its kind after its predecessor comprable model planes made maiden flights last year, marking the 30-day countdown to the international horticultural event.

Vice president of Air China Ma Chongxian noted that Air China has always upheld the principle of environmental protection and sustainable development, attaching high importance on energy saving and emission reduction. It coincides with the theme of “Green Life and Beautiful Homeland” being promoted at the Beijing International Horticultural Exhibition, Ma added.

The flight to London showcases the attitude of Air China to contribute to the ecologically friendly development of China, and will also spread the green philosophy to more regions and people across the world.

London was the host city of the first International Horticultural Exhibition. The flight marks a tribute to the origin of the event, and carries great wishes to the future ecological civilization of human beings.

According to Ma, the body of the Airbus A350—900 was made of compound materials that reduce oil consumption, which conforms to Air China’s philosophy of green operation and sustainable development.