The Shandong Airlines logo embodies grace, uniqueness, and authenticity. The company aims to meet the transportation needs of the region’s residents and prides itself on representing China internationally.
Shandong Airlines: Brand overview
In 1994, Shandong Airlines Co. (SDA or 山航) took to the air, marking its entry into China’s aviation industry. The airline’s headquarters, the Shandong Airlines Center (山东航空大厦; Shāndōng Hángkōng Dàshà), located in Jinan, Shandong, became the central hub of its operations. The airline began operations in September of the same year to provide passengers safe and reliable travel.
Shandong Airlines has become a major player in meeting the growing demand for air transportation in Shandong Province, offering convenient domestic and international connections from its main hubs in Jinan, Qingdao, and Yantai. The influential Shandong Aviation Group facilitated the establishment of Shandong Airlines, which now holds a 42% controlling stake, solidifying its position in the industry.
In September 1997, Shandong Airlines made history by becoming a founding member of the New Star (Xinxing) aviation alliance.
In June 2004, Shandong Airlines launched its first international flight from Jinan to Singapore.
Shandong Airlines owes its growth and success to two powerful allies. Shandong Aviation Group, a prominent name in Chinese aviation, holds an impressive 42% stake in the airline, while strategic partner Air China holds a 22.8% stake.
Meaning and History
What is Shandong Airlines?
Shandong Airlines, known as SDA, is an important player in the aviation industry and is based at the Shandong Airlines Center in Jinan, Shandong Province. Founded in 1994, the airline has grown rapidly to meet the ever-increasing demand for domestic and international transportation, strengthening Shandong’s reputation as a dynamic economic center. The airline has focused on building a strong network connecting China’s key cities with the rest of the world.
1994 – today
The Shandong Airlines logo reflects the company’s energy and ambition, combining national motifs with modern elements. It features a dark blue circle on the left with three smooth, upward lines. These lines resemble wings or air currents, symbolizing movement and flight. They converge at the center, forming the image of a bird with raised wings and a forward-facing head. This symbol conveys the spirit of freedom and the drive to reach new heights.
To the right of the circle is the text element. Large orange Chinese characters catch the eye and add brightness to the logo. The slanted style of the characters creates a sense of motion, emphasizing the company’s connection to its national roots.
Below the Chinese characters is the company name in English. It is divided into two lines and rendered in dark blue, harmonizing with the symbol. The sans-serif font is clean and slightly slanted to the right, highlighting progress and development. The layout ensures the text is structured and easy to read.
The logo’s colors—blue and orange—convey calmness, reliability, energy, and confidence through blue and orange. Their combination creates a balance that reflects the airline’s stability and forward momentum.
The Shandong Airlines logo stands out for its simplicity and expressiveness. The curved lines, bright accents, and thoughtful colors highlight the company’s international presence, professionalism, and ambition for new achievements.