10 Iconic Airlines That No Longer Exist
The aviation industry is full of stories of grandeur and ambition, but not every airline survives through the harsh realities of the aviation industries. Some of these iconic airlines soared for a time and eventually retired for various reasons.
These ambassadors of their home country are still remembered today as many of them were pioneers that birthed the more modern flight options seen today. They may no longer operate, but they inspired many and opened doors, connecting a once separated world through air travel.
Pan American World Airways
Pan Am wasn’t just an airline, it was a cultural icon. It was the archetype of the golden age of air travel and was founded in 1927. Its recognizable blue globe logo, and international routes made it a legend. The airline was the first to introduce jumbo jets and in flight entertainment. Due to rising competition, financial mismanagement, and the 1988 Lockerbie bombing, in 1991 it effectively ceased operations. Pan Am is a reminder of an age of elegance and innovation in air travel.
Trans World Airlines (TWA)
TWA was the pioneer of luxury air travel. One of the most glamorous airlines of its time operated from 1925 to 2001. TWA was known for its sleek branding, top notch services and made flying an experience. However, the competition from low cost carriers and the shocking effect from the September 11 attacks had it forced to combine with American Airlines.
Eastern Air Lines
Eastern Air Lines were once a big player in the U.S. market, especially in aviation, and a commodity through out the east coast for domestic travelers. One of its innovations was hourly shuttle service in between major cities. Eastern however, had labor disputes and financial difficulties and was grounded in 1991. In 2015, a revival attempt failed to bring it back to life.
Braniff International Airways
Flying was stylish on Braniff. Braniff first made its name in the 1960’s and 70’s for brightly painted planes and bold, modern branding, even collaborating with the likes of Emilio Pucci for uniforms, and Alexander Girard for aircraft interiors. Despite the flair for creativity, the airline went belly up in 1982 because of economic reasons.
Swissair
In the history of European air travel, Swissair was known for reliability and luxury. It was founded in 1931 and was known as the Flying Bank for its solid financial reputation. Following rapid expansion and bad management decisions, it went broke in 2002. Swissair’s story is a cautionary tale about overambition in airline industry.
Continental Airlines
Continental Airlines was its own major player in American aviation before it merged with United Airlines in 2012. When it merged with United, it became the world’s largest airline, but loyal customers still reminisce about Continental’s golden years.
Air Afrique
The Pan African airline, Air Afrique, was created in 1961 through a coalition of African countries. At a time of decolonization, it meant unity and independence. Air Afrique was known for its vibrant branding and commitment to uniting the continent, but faced competition and financial difficulties before ceasing operations in 2002. A bittersweet reminder of dreams and challenges in African aviation.
Alitalia
Alitalia, Italy’s flagship airline, flew for almost 75 years before going out of business in 2021. It was famous for its Italian flair, its excellent cuisine, and its sleek aircraft. The airline suffered many financial losses and was eventually replaced by ITA Airways.
British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC)
BOAC was founded in 1939 and played a significant role in the formation of international aviation during and after WW II. Long haul flights and pioneering jet travel was what BOAC was known for. It was merged with British European Airways in 1974 to form British Airways.
Sabena
Sabena was Belgium’s national airline, once a trailblazer in linking Europe to Africa and the rest of the world. It operated from 1923 to 2001 and enjoyed a loyal customer base. It was also known for having good service, but unfortunately went bankrupt due to financial woes and stiff competition.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
Affordable Home Entertainment: 11 Must-Have Finds For Enhancing Your Family Movie Nights
Affordable Home Entertainment: 11 Must-Have Finds For Enhancing Your Family Movie Nights
How to Clean Your Smoker Grill Combo Like a Pro
How to Clean Your Smoker Grill Combo Like a Pro
10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
Even if you’ve been on a safari in the past, an African photo safari is something you want to experience or at the very list add to the top of your bucket list.
But first, what is a photo safari? The phrase “photo safari” is not a common sentence structure but its meaning can be deduced easily. An African photo safari in general context means going on an adventure with the sole purpose of taking high-quality pictures.
10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
