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

In the era spanning from the 1950s to the 1970s, flying wasn’t just a means of transportation; it was an experience steeped in luxury and style. Aviation historian Graham M. Simons reminisces about this special time, describing air travel as something extraordinary, characterized by its luxuriousness, smoothness, and speed. Passengers enjoyed spacious seats, and the crew exuded elegance, resembling figures straight out of a fashion magazine. Simons notes that people would dress up for flights, emphasizing 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, albeit at significantly higher costs. For instance, a round-trip ticket from Chicago to Phoenix in 1955 would set you back $138, which, adjusted for inflation, translates to roughly $1,200 today. Aviation expert Guillaume de Syon highlights the substantial cost differential, noting that flying during this period could be four to five times more expensive, particularly 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. Marketing their flights as luxurious modes of transport, airlines served extravagant meals featuring delicacies like caviar and foie gras. Some even hosted fashion shows on board, adding to the allure of air travel. Former flight attendant Suzy Smith fondly recalls serving beluga caviar and foie gras as part of the in-flight dining experience.

Laid-back Atmosphere

Flying during this era was characterized by a laid-back atmosphere, akin to attending a cocktail party. Passengers were expected to dress formally, with attire such as 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, in particular, stood out for its unparalleled luxury and glamour. Former Pan Am employee Joan Policastro reminisces about the airline’s star-studded flights, which offered fancy food and exclusive lounges for passengers. Flying with Pan Am was akin to traveling in the lap of luxury, setting the standard for premium air travel during the Golden Age.

Strict Standards for Flight Attendants

Flight attendants during this period were not only expected to provide impeccable service but also adhere to strict appearance and behavioral standards. Female flight attendants, known as air hostesses, were required to wear attire that included high heels, white gloves, and even corsets. Airlines imposed specific requirements regarding appearance, hair length, weight limits, and even marital status, reflecting the emphasis placed on presentation during this era.

Fond Memories and Nostalgia

Despite the passage of time, people still fondly remember the Golden Age of flying. Groups like World Wings, comprised of former Pan Am employees, keep the 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 lives on in the hearts of those who experienced it, reminding us of a time when air travel was synonymous with luxury, elegance, and excitement.