What Your Typical Day Was Like During ‘The Golden Age’ Of Commercial Flying

The Golden Age of Air Travel: Luxury and Style from the 1950s to the 1970s

From the 1950s to the 1970s, flying was more than just a means of transportation—it was an experience defined by luxury and elegance. Aviation historian Graham M. Simons fondly recalls this special era, describing air travel as extraordinary for its lavishness, smoothness, and speed. Passengers enjoyed spacious seats, and the crew, exuding elegance, looked as if they had stepped straight out of a fashion magazine. Dressing up for flights was common, underscoring the grandeur of the occasion.

Limited Choices, High Costs

Unlike today’s plethora of flight options, the Golden Age of air travel offered limited choices, often at significantly higher costs. For example, a round-trip ticket from Chicago to Phoenix in 1955 cost $138, which, adjusted for inflation, is roughly $1,200 today. Aviation expert Guillaume de Syon highlights that flying during this period was four to five times more expensive, especially for international travel, making it accessible only to the wealthiest individuals.

Extravagant Service and Cuisine

Airlines spared no expense in impressing passengers with sumptuous meals and top-notch service. Flights were marketed as luxurious experiences, with airlines serving extravagant meals featuring delicacies like caviar and foie gras. Some airlines even hosted fashion shows onboard, enhancing the allure of air travel. Former flight attendant Suzy Smith fondly remembers serving beluga caviar and foie gras as part of the in-flight dining experience.

Laid-back Atmosphere

Flying during this era was akin to attending a cocktail party, characterized by a laid-back atmosphere. Passengers typically dressed formally, with shirts, ties, and jackets being the norm. Security measures were less stringent, allowing passengers to bring unusual items on board, such as pet birds in shoeboxes. This sense of freedom contributed to the relaxed and enjoyable flying experience.

The Pan Am Experience

Pan Am stood out for its unparalleled luxury and glamour. Former Pan Am employee Joan Policastro reminisces about the airline’s star-studded flights, which featured fancy food and exclusive lounges for passengers. Flying with Pan Am was like traveling in the lap of luxury, setting the standard for premium air travel during the Golden Age.

Strict Standards for Flight Attendants

Flight attendants of this period were expected to provide impeccable service while adhering to strict appearance and behavioral standards. Female flight attendants, known as air hostesses, wore attire that included high heels, white gloves, and even corsets. Airlines imposed specific requirements regarding appearance, hair length, weight limits, and marital status, reflecting the emphasis on presentation during this era.

Fond Memories and Nostalgia

Despite the passage of time, the Golden Age of flying remains fondly remembered. Groups like World Wings, comprised of former Pan Am employees, keep these memories alive, cherishing the days when flying was a true adventure. While the golden age of flying may be a thing of the past, its magic endures in the hearts of those who experienced it, reminding us of a time when air travel was synonymous with luxury, elegance, and excitement.