Air travel in the past was completely different from today. Absolutely everyone could travel first class, without having to fight their way through large crowds and long lines. But what did it really look like? Fortunately, there is no need to describe this experience in words. We have selected some vintage photographs that reveal the charm of air travel in the past.
In 1958, the rules for arranging the passenger cabin of air transport were established. Among the features were opaque window shades, folding armrests and cantilevered seats to improve passenger comfort. There was enough space under the chair to accommodate hand luggage.
The aircraft featured a wide cabin and plenty of legroom. The aisle also looked wide enough for both flight attendants and passengers to move around.
Food and drinks were served like in a restaurant. It was hard to believe that you are many kilometers from the earth.
Today’s flights can be uncomfortable and stressful. But all fears would instantly disappear if your stewardess looked like these beautiful ladies.
Flying was fun and interesting. Guests could relax in the piano bar, talk about good food, good friends, good music and have a good laugh.
Another way to unwind during the flight is to have a few drinks, or catch up on the latest news on the big comfy sofas.
Looking at these photos today, it’s hard to believe you’re inside an airplane. You might think that you are sitting in a bar on a Friday night, enjoying champagne and cocktails.
Attention to detail was the main feature that airlines provided to their customers. The lounges on the planes were chic and stylish.
Visitors could use such a room to freshen up and prepare for the grand landing.
Gourmet cuisine was not limited to the land. Even flights provided excellent service in the best restaurants.
Ladies can touch up their makeup a little or comb their hair after a long flight.
The plane was a place favorable for socialization. The atmosphere was light and joyful.
Previously, smoking on an airplane was not as strictly prohibited as it is now.
Traveling in the past did not require sacrificing comfort for many hours. Air travel was a time to relax, enjoy food and drink, and meet new acquaintances in the spacious cabin of the aircraft. The aircraft were stocked with comfortable and luxurious amenities including piano bars, pubs, lounges, comfortable rooms and restaurants.
Sleeping on a flight in the golden age of air travel didn’t wake you up with tense neck and shoulder muscles and leg cramps. Airlines such as Imperial Airways and Boeing had comfortable sleeping quarters for visitors. And they certainly spoiled their passengers like kings and queens.
As for the price, you had to pay more for such a flight. But it was a fair price to pay for near-perfect service with uniformed stewards and stewardesses, luxurious cabins with plenty of room for comfort and movement, and delicious food and drinks served in style. Today, the flight economy promises all passengers only prolonged suffering. To get such a service, you need to fly first class, which is still significantly inferior in comfort to what it was before. In those days, air travel was indeed the most convenient way to quickly get to your destination.
