A unique Frontier Airlines plane landed at Juan Santamaría International Airport near Costa Rica’s capital. The aircraft had a large picture of a two-toed sloth named “Tico” on its tail and arrived from Atlanta as part of Frontier’s signature endangered species branding efforts.
Frontier decorates each of its ultra-low-cost carriers with colorful images of a specific animal from across its network. They carefully research and name each creature to raise awareness about vulnerable wildlife worldwide. For Costa Rica, the sloth, a national symbol, represents the country’s diverse ecology.
The selected sloth lives in the Natuwa Sanctuary in Puntarenas. Frontier, the Costa Rica Tourism Board (ICT), and sloth biologists chose “Tico” in 2022 after considering various candidates and conducting photoshoots while respecting the animals’ well-being.
Tyri Squyres, Frontier Airlines VP of Marketing, said, “We are thrilled about our partnership with Costa Rica’s travel industry in launching an aircraft celebrating the cherished sloth… Introducing ‘Tico’ showcases our deep admiration for Costa Rica and its iconic national symbol.” Squyres also emphasized Frontier’s commitment to protecting vulnerable species in the Americas.
Sloths can live over 30 years in the wild due to their natural habitat and lifestyle, and Costa Rica supports their conservation through forest protections. Frontier’s Atlanta hub connects to San José with several direct flights daily, and approximately 1.5 million U.S. tourists flew to Costa Rica last year. Passengers traveling on the “TicoJet” will start their Costa Rican vacation with a taste of pura vida vibes as they board.
1. Look for unique branding on airlines: Frontier Airlines is known for adorning their planes with colorful graphics of specific animals from around their network. Pay attention to these unique planes as they can represent endangered species from the destination country.
2. Research the national symbols of the country you’re visiting: In the case of Costa Rica, the sloth represents their diverse ecology. Familiarize yourself with the national symbols of the country you’re traveling to as it can provide unique insights into their culture and environment.
3. Support environmental protection efforts: Frontier Airlines emphasizes its commitment to environmental protection efforts focused on vulnerable species across the Americas. Consider supporting initiatives or organizations that protect wildlife and contribute to conservation efforts during your travels.
4. Take direct flights: Frontier Airlines offers multiple direct daily flights from Atlanta to San José, Costa Rica. Opting for direct flights can save you time and make your travel experience more convenient.
5. Embrace the local culture: The term “pura vida” translates to “pure life” in Spanish and is a commonly used phrase in Costa Rica. When flying on the “TicoJet,” embrace the pura vida vibes and immerse yourself in the local culture and way of life.
6. Visit sanctuaries and conservation centers: Consider visiting sanctuaries and conservation centers like the Natuwa Sanctuary in Puntarenas, where the selected sloth “Tico” resides. This can provide an opportunity to learn more about the unique wildlife of the country and contribute to their conservation efforts.
