20 Ways Flying Was Different In The "Golden Age" Of Air Travel
When Getting There Was Half The Fun
There was a time when stepping onto an airplane felt like entering a world of luxury and style; a far cry from today’s cramped cabins and endless security lines. In the “Golden Age” of air travel, passengers dressed in their finest, sipped martinis at 30,000 feet, and dined on lobster served on real china. Here are 20 ways air travel has changed since the early days of commercial flying.
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1. There Were Open Bars
In the 50s and 60s, it was common to have open bars on planes. Bottomless martinis, wine, whisky, and a social atmosphere were all part of the experience.
2. It Was Glamorous To Be Flight Staff
Whether a flight attendant or a pilot, working on a plane was considered extremely glamorous. Pilots were treated like celebrities, and then-called "stewardesses" were known for their poise and elegance.
3. Smoking Was Allowed
Back in the days, clouds weren't just on the outside of the plane. Smoking was allowed pretty much everywhere, including on aircraft. There were "no smoking" sections, but that hardly made a difference given the lack of air circulation.
4. There Was No Security
These days, we're all accustomed to taking off our shoes, emptying our pockets, and carrying water bottles. But for decades, none of this was necessary. You could saunter onto a plane the same way you'd enter a bus.
5. There Were In-Flight Performances
Some planes back in the day felt more like jazz bars than aircraft. Many airlines would hire musicians to give in-flight performances, making long-haul trips more enjoyable.
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6. Airlines Competed On Glamour
Now, airlines compete on price, but before, they were all about one-upping each other based on luxury, glamour, or comfort. They were constantly striving to offer fancier food, classier uniforms, or better service.
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7. It Was An Exclusive Luxury Experience
Nowadays, almost everyone has been on a plane, but air travel was a much more exclusive experience when it first started being offered commercially. Only the elite or business travelers took to the skies, which made the experience feel special and civilized.
8. Passengers Dressed To The Nines
Today, dressing for a flight usually means wearing your comfiest sweatpants, but before, people would wear their finest clothes. It was seen as a luxury experience, a nd people dressed as such.
9. There Was Plenty Of Leg Room
With airlines nowadays simply trying to squeeze as many people on a plane as possible, seats have become almost comically small, and everything feels cramped on planes. In the "Golden Age," comfort was key, so leg room and seat size were more than ample.
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10. It Was Extremely Expensive
We tend to complain about the cost of flights today, but it's nothing compared to what it used to be. A true status symbol, the astronomically high prices ensured air travel was reserved for the elite.
11. There Were Fewer Flights
Today, there's an overwhelming amount of traffic in the sky, with thousands of planes flying overhead at any given moment, but it wasn't always like that. In the "Golden Age," schedules were sparse and weather delays were more common, meaning you would often have to wait overnight for the next flight.
12. Layovers Were Part Of The Adventure
Today, layovers are heavily dreaded and often seen as one of the most stressful parts of traveling. Before, however, they were part of the adventure. Passengers would look forward to enjoying themselves in stylish airport lounges.
13. Luggage Was Fashionable
For the most part, today's luggage is designed to be purely utilitarian. However, in the past, luggage was heavy but stylish, polished, leather, and sometimes monogrammed or matched to a passenger's outfit.
14. Flying Was More Dangerous
Air travel has significantly improved in the several decades since the "Golden Age." In the 50s and 60s, there were fewer regulations and less advanced technology, which meant that even simple turbulence would sometimes lead to serious injuries or fatalities.
15. Flying Felt Magical
Air travel is so normalized today, we often take it for granted, griping about the wi-fi not working well instead of staring out the window as we soar above the clouds. Back in the day, when flying was still novel, passengers would marvel at being thousands of feet above the earth.
16. No Cramped Overhead Bins
Today, passengers compete for overhead bin space on a flight because no one wants to pay extra to check a bag. Before, cabins were more minimal, and practically all bags were checked.
17. In-Flight Meals Were Gourmet
Today, meals served on planes are served on plastic and usually consist of mushy pasta or overcooked chicken. Before, however, it was usually a gourmet multi-course meal served on china plates with silverware.
18. Airlines Offered Free Souvenirs
Today, you'd be hard-pressed to receive anything complimentary from an airline aside from maybe some pretzels. However, before, airlines liked to give passengers small branded gifts like playing cards or toiletries.
19. Larger Planes Had Spiral Staircases
Some of the larger planes had spiral staircases that led to an upper deck where there was a lounge or premium seating. Notable examples were the Boeing 377 Stratocruiser and the Boeing 747.
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20. Aircraft Interiors Were Luxurious
It wasn't just spiral staircases; the interiors of aircraft were adorned with luxurious features and used high-quality materials. It felt like being in a five-star hotel.
