Artist Sues AirAsia Over Alleged Unauthorized Use Of Iconic Mural
A Malaysia-based artist has taken legal action against AirAsia and its parent company Capital A Berhad, accusing the airline of using his artwork on an aircraft without permission.
Ernest Zacharevic, a Lithuanian-born artist who has lived in Penang for more than a decade, alleges that one of his best-known works was reproduced as part of an AirAsia aircraft livery in late 2024. According to court filings, the artwork was displayed without his consent, authorization, or any licensing agreement.
Zacharevic claims the livery was removed only after he publicly raised concerns about the alleged use of his work.
Dispute Centers On Famous Penang Mural
At the heart of the lawsuit is Kids on Bicycle, a mural Zacharevic created in 2012 for a local art festival in George Town. The piece, which depicts two children laughing on a real bicycle mounted against a wall, has since become one of Penang’s most photographed cultural landmarks.
Zacharevic said he first became aware of the alleged infringement in October 2024, when he saw an AirAsia aircraft featuring artwork he believed closely resembled his paintings. He later encountered the plane in operation at an airport, describing the experience as upsetting.
“It felt a little offensive,” he said, recalling the moment he saw the aircraft.
The artist subsequently shared images of the plane on social media and tagged the airline, calling for discussions over the use of the artwork.
Talks Fail To Reach Agreement
Zacharevic said he has since held discussions with the airline, but negotiations failed to result in a settlement. He also alleges that this was not the first time his work had been used in connection with AirAsia, claiming similar imagery appeared on a delivery bag linked to the airline’s food services arm.
Court documents further state that Zacharevic had previously been in talks with AirAsia in 2017 about creating artwork for the airline, including jet liveries and an office mural. He alleges the company was made aware of his work and professional rates during those discussions.
Despite that, the lawsuit claims the airline went on to reproduce and publicly display one of his most recognizable works, allegedly infringing on his copyright and moral rights.
Airline Yet To Respond Publicly
The BBC has contacted AirAsia for comment, but no public response has been issued so far.
AirAsia is currently the largest low-cost airline in Asia, operating more than 200 aircraft across over 100 destinations. Earlier this week, the carrier announced plans to resume flights from Kuala Lumpur to London via Bahrain, marking its return to the UK capital after more than ten years.
Zacharevic said he is leaving it to the courts to determine any compensation owed, stressing that his work should not be dismissed as a generic cultural reference.
“The artwork in question is a distinct artistic creation,” he said. “It is the result of many years of professional training, skill, and labour.”
