Contact: Sunny Mindel/ Edward Skyler (212) 788-2958
Kim Serafin, NYC 2000 (212) 788-2000
Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani today christened the NYC 2000 official plane at the conclusion of its maiden flight. The Continental Airlines' plane, a Boeing 777, features a one-of-a-kind exterior painted by world-renowned artist Peter Max, includes the NYC 2000 logo, and promotes New York City's Millennium Celebrations. The Mayor was joined by Continental Chairman and CEO Gordon Bethune and artist Peter Max during the plane's unveiling at Newark International Airport.
"The Millennium celebrations in New York City, including the ball dropping at Times Square and First Night Celebrations throughout the City, will highlight New York City's role as the Millennium Capital of the World and will be the focus of everyone's attention," Mayor Giuliani said. "This Continental Boeing 777, decorated by Peter Max's exhilarating artwork, will be NYC 2000's ambassador, inviting people from around the world to participate in this historic commemoration, and I am pleased to welcome her to the New York City area."
The plane, a new $150 million Boeing 777 wide-body jet, flew directly into the Continental's New York hub from the Boeing plant in Seattle. It will enter regular scheduled service tomorrow, carrying a colorful message about New York City on premier international routes including Tokyo, London, Paris and Milan.
The specially commissioned plane is one element of Continental's association with NYC 2000. In October, the Mayor announced the NYC 2000 scholarship program in which Continental Airlines partners with American Express to provide $1 million in support of New York City Public Schools. The money will be used to re-build libraries in New York City elementary and middle schools, and to fund a college scholarship program for graduating seniors.
The innovative canvas is a first for world renowned pop artist Peter Max, whose artwork has enlivened major events including the Super Bowl, World Cup Soccer and the New York City Marathon.
-over- "Thanks to Continental and NYC 2000, my colors will fly worldwide into the new millennium, a colorful symbol of all that the Big Apple has to offer," said Peter Max.
Continental Airlines, an official sponsor of NYC 2000, is the fifth largest carrier airline in the US, offering more than 2,200 departures daily to 129 domestic and 85 international destinations.
"We wanted to help carry a message about the excitement of New York City around the world, and working with Peter and NYC 2000 on this project seemed like the perfect vehicle for accomplishing this goal," said Gordon Bethune. "The result, whether you see it on the ground or in the sky, is virtually stunning."
NYC 2000 is the official millennium committee for New York City, established by Mayor Giuliani, to ensure that the city's millennium celebrations showcase New York as the Capital of the World. In addition to helping coordinate the Times Square 2000 celebration this year on New Year's Eve, NYC 2000 is also organizing First Night New York City 2000, a five-borough, family-oriented, non-alcoholic celebration featuring everything from music and dancing to food and fireworks on December 31, 1999. The NYC 2000 logo was designed by Dellia Bonfilio of Bonfilio Design.