What We Miss About Flying in the 1960s & 70s

[@jeanniemainzer8551]

I was born in 1963. I like to stay home now because every time I go out, I am reminded of how far as a society we’ve fallen. Sad, just sad.

[@Penfold-8521]

61 for me. I can't believe how many people are dumbfounded when I act courteously whilst driving.

[@pilotrserra]

65 for me, unfortunately it was 35 years of a totally different “corporate culture, political lobbying”, and “corporate greed.” Corporate corruption reached an all-time high between 1998 to 2015, which then trickled down to citizens because they thought it was the only way to survive. The only way to control the corporations is through taxation. President Eisenhower was correct…and the Supreme Court made a stupid decision to give corporations citizenship and human rights called “citizens United”…corruption at its finest. The Citizens United decision opened the floodgates to the billions of dollars that have since poured into the election system, and destroyed our culture and hard-working middle class families. It is all about greedy people having more control and influence

[@c.rutherford]

It depresses me and the new generations don't seem to get it. They're all about my right to look like a bum. And they see dressing sloppy to work as a perk. The latest craze is bizzare unkempt hairstyles and pants falling down as 'ethnic rights'. good grief.

[@vapsa56]

61 here, and I still dress properly, suit and tie, when traveling on an aircraft. And when did common decent behavior become a thing of that past? People now look like they have just rolled out of bed and stumbled into an airport and have a nasty attitude.

[@kezzatries]

I popped out in 55 imagine how I feel, I live in a cow paddock now

[@lindaross783]

I was a Flight Attendant in the early 1970's for United the friendly skies. Lovely company. Great experience. People were kinder and civilized.

[@FOXYCECILIA]

As a kid I remembered in 1977 flying a 747 Air France from Paris to New York..everyone was dressed nice , you barely heard any noises, people would behave ,no loud talking or disrespectful passengers, there was a lounge for 1st class travelers, the seats were roomy and the isles were wide enough that you didn't bumped on someone, and yes numerous bathrooms, the food and drinks were delicious, you had options to choose your meal and snacks. Kids would get little gift/souvenirs with the airline's logo....Nowadays...it's like a freak show, plane is smaller, seats are Smallers people are bigger, rude and arrogant travelers ,smelly and some dressed like they just rolled out of bed wearing PJ's ..and all the stuff we are witnessing today!! aaaah gone are the good ol days when people had class!!

[@2501me]

😂About planes being smaller , people bigger & looking like they just rolled out of bed & in pyjamas. Omg, that is just way too hilarious. Tears are literally running down my face & people must think I’m crazy laughing hysterically alone & all the while trying not to be too loud about it.

[@rainbows9060]

​@@2501meat least your not doing it on a plane😂

[@FOXYCECILIA]

@@2501me 😂😂 glad u enjoyed the humor...The more advanced our evolution is at the more people are acting like cavemen...seems like we can't have both equally at the same level..🤣😂

[@danasandoval624]

I completely agree with you. I remember as a teenager (I’m 66) my mom and I flying, we dressed nice, it was special to fly & vacation in other parts of the world. Like you said we were served meals that were really good. If it was a short flight you were still served a sandwich & soup. People would actually go to the gate to see you off. Now you worry about getting through security with out being patted down & your carry on being rifled through by somebody that can’t smile doesn’t even bother grunting and has dirty nasty hands that are touching & feeling your pajamas & your underwear. My husband & I love to cruise & often it is out of Miami, we fly into Miami airport and it is like watching a freak show. One particular guy/?? sticks in my mind we saw recently. He was young early 20’s probably around 6’1” had on a hideous short dress, big clunky high heeled black boots, black nail polish, black lipstick, hair hadn’t been combed in weeks. He was trailing behind a nice dressed older man in a suit (I got the feeling it was his father) the older man had a look of shame on his face and was trying to get through the airport as quickly as possible. If that had been me I don’t care what the young guy would have said or claimed to be or problems he had I would have told him I am not going out in public with you looking like that. So the choice is yours dress decently without black lipstick, or nails, no dresses & no high heeled boots. If not then go on your own, which means he would be paying his own way. Society is demanding we indulge these people in their disgusting behavior and delusional ideas. It’s not bad enough many don’t know what soap & water & deodorant are but now they don’t even know something as simple as the sex they were born. Sorry about the rant I’ll get off my soap box now. I wish as a society people had more pride and respect for themselves & others, but we see they don’t.

[@beachgirl1947]

God !! I miss these days. I remember flying with my mother across the Atlantic on a Pam Am clipper jet in 1958. It was magical; the stewardess let me wear her cap and help with the other flyers. I got lovely tips and thought how wonderful it was. Now, travelling at the age of 76 is simply a nightmare

[@Tempestzzzz]

70 here. Been flying since the 1950's. I have nothing but contempt for the whole air travel experience.

[@leestamm3187]

I'm 75 and well recall the days when air travel was a pleasant experience. Yes, it was more expensive, but passengers in the coach section were not just cargo and people behaved far better. Happily, I have a vestibular condition that doesn't permit me to fly anymore, so I don't have to deal with the horde of loud, crude, boorish idiots that are crammed into planes these days.

[@jeffg.8964]

Flew with my parents in the early 1960s on BOAC to the Bahamas. Dad wore a three-piece suit, Mom wore a fashionable dress, high heels, white gloves and a hat, they had me in a tie and jacket. It was great, nothing like today. Food was good, real china, silverware, cloth napkins.

[@jeffg.8964]

@camelliainzurich1262 I forgot about the prayer cards. I think they were placed on the food trays?

[@abbysbud1]

@camelliainzurich1262 ohhh, those prayer cards were so sweet!! 🥹 Thank you for reminding me honey♥️

[@Sheracross]

Those were the days. RESPECT, manners, and class

[@JayNoodles]

If you were white, straight, male, etc.

[@lynettenasseri753]

As a child in the 1960's my family and I flew quite a bit and I loved it. People did dress up, fellow passengers were well behaved and decent, and the stewardesses were helpful and friendly handing out activity booklets to the children, duffle bags and flight wings (Pan Am and TWA). I always looked forward to the dinners and if flying at night blankets and small pillows were handed out. Not crowded, noisy and never a complaint from anyone let alone the zoo of flying today. The day in 1978 airline deregulation went through everything changed for the worse and has continued to go downhill. I miss those wonderful days and dislike flying now.

[@maryfountain4202]

I recall the meals and free drinks. A totally different experience, even in the 80's. Far more enjoyable than now.

[@nightreader1264]

The last time I flew, 2 years ago, my husband bought me a ticket on American Airlines. It was like a bus with wheels. Reminded me of taking the bus in college- the Grey Hound.

[@purplesprigs]

People who were on Greyhound in the 60's and 70's are now flying, and making it a living hell. It's more fun to drive 1,000 miles.

[@rosemiranda7300]

I used to work for Panam in the good old days, people used to dress up and be civil. Our uniforms were beautiful, designed by Dior and very chic.

[@rowbom]

I remember the first time I flew on an airplane, it was 1972 on an Air France to Paris. I remember the stewardesses in these beautiful linen two-piece suits designed by Dior.

[@michellesims6953]

I'd love to have experienced that

[@wixom01]

I'm 65 so I remember those days. When flying, my parents mandated we put on a suit and tie! How times have changed.

[@flyingthesails6801]

We were never rich enough to fly. However, when we went to downtown Main Street, our parents made us dress up. It was something that people did back then. People took pride in how they looked and acted. Those days are long gone.

[@richardque1036]

Agree!

[@garlandlabat4922]

I boarded my first flight at age 20 (in 1958). Over the next 60 years I flew hundreds of thousands of miles. Indeed, a beautiful era is gone forever, but I'm glad I (and my late wife of 59 years) got to experience it. Most airports are now worse than the Trailway bus depot was then.

[@jeanhansel5805]

Much of this history can hold true for luxury train travel as well. I remember traveling on Union Pacific's City of San Francisco, City of Portland, and was on the last trip for the California Zephyr. The food was delicious, served on real dishes with real glasses and silverware. Everyone dressed up because it was such a special experience.. Then Amtrak replaced all the luxury trains and train travel never was the same again.

[@JohnJones-f6l]

First flight was as a teen in late 60s. Then flew often after college because of work..Airport's were clean including waiting area. Could arrive at Airport 45 mins before a flight. People were dressed respectfully...Just flew from ATL to S MX...Certain lady next to me was a hooked. Hangin out everywhere. She had to put a blanket on her lower body to avoid exposing to much. Month or two before 25yo took his shoes off and rest feet on surface in front...Miss the days when flyers had manners.

[@imjelo]

Used to travel by air as a teenager back in the early to the mid-80s. (my father was a university professor back then). People were also decently dressed and mannered compare that to the air travelers today.

[@philippe146]

True, it feels like we going backward not forward

[@albertsmyth9616]

In the late 60’s & early 70’s my father was a military attaché in British embassies in the Middle East and as a prep school boy from the age of 7 to 13 I used to fly out with my little brother from England and back, to my parents for the holidays, and in those days British Armed Forces officers’ children were flown out free, first class, and it was a wonderful experience. It was so sophisticated and civilised. Everyone dressed well for the aeroplane (first or second class) and we dined with silver cutlery and china for the meals. I’m not making this up, I remember it like it was yesterday. Nowadays, it’s like a cattle truck.

[@manichairdo9265]

Wonderful description of better days. Thank you for sharing your memories.

[@Ben-xe8ps]

Very surprised that the armed forces would pay First Class fares for unaccompanied children of that age, even the children of officers. It makes no sense.

[@standdown4929]

We went from class to ghetto in just over 40 years. I can't imagine what things will look like in another 40 years.

[@CKLee-rs4kl]

wear your body armor!

[@standdown4929]

@@CKLee-rs4kl I won't be around then, but I will wear it until.

[@aaronwilliams6989]

Well, I'll be dead and gone by then. So it ain't gonna matter to me.

[@solangelauthier2381]

I am glad that in 40 years I will be dead and I have no children.Certainly do not want to see what the world will be then or leave it to my children.

[@pilotrserra]

Yeah, I’m 65 and have traveled a lot. I don’t know what happened to the west. I believe it started in the public school system when we did not see anymore male teachers. They left and so did discipline. No discipline and women do not have the personality or physical stature to enforce rules. Quality foreigners do not want to live in the west. A ghetto could be poor but clean and polite. There are some countries where the ghettos are safe, have great food and clean…but they also have men who enforce a high standard.

[@0327babygirl]

I remember as a child in the early 70s, flying with my parents and sibling and we were nicely dressed..The food was great, none of those miniature peanut bags and plastic cups! Even the flight attendants (stewardesses) were better dressed than today..Miss those simpler times, which brought much elegance..Now, people are rude, wear house shoes, or whatever they throw on..PITIFUL!!!

[@WhiskeyHunterVAT69]

yep, I remember that. 1972 10 years old flying to England, wonderful. Fast forward to last year, short flight to Seattle, I will NEVER get on a plane again. I was miserable, and I had a 1st class ticket.

[@Davett53]

Oh, what glorious memories of flying in the late 1960s and on up to before 2001. I was a high school student, in 1969, and then a college student in the early 1970s & 80s. I recall it was acceptable to wear a nice sweater & a tie or no tie,....I never had to wear a sport coat. I recall smoking cigarettes on some flights. I loved getting a wee bit relaxed, by having a cocktail in the airport lounges. I also drank while in flight. In the mid 1970s, I was able to sneak a few tokes of hashish, in the plane's lavatory. It never raised any attention. Though my buddy, almost got busted for smoking a joint, on one of his flights, in the plane's lavatory. In his case he was given a stern lecture by a flight attendant. No arrests. There were no x-ray machines, or drug sniffing dogs. After 9-11-2001,....when planes were hijacked, and were crashed into the World Trade Center,....everything went to hell. You could get flagged for looking suspicious, or (nervous).. or too ethnic and be denied boarding. The last time I flew anywhere, was in 1989.

[@KB-ke3fi]

Yip the terrorists ruined it all with the hijackings.

[@LHLK-q2v]

What is this bs, people with class don't act like that

[@LHLK-q2v]

@@KB-ke3fi no this kind of person ruined it, being high and drunk

[@disciple68]

I miss being able to go all the way to the gate to meet or see of friends or relatives.

[@macpduff2119]

Oh my gosh YES.

[@cinthia9602]

I remember when people dressed up to go on the subway. I know it's not flying but people were so much classier 50 years ago.

[@CKLee-rs4kl]

Right, and now everyone thinks they look great in leggings and sweats -- with the personalities to match, unfortunately.

[@tenniekomar6683]

In the late 1950s & early 1960s my parents would put me on a plane by myself all dressed up, gloves, little purse, petty coat, and hat. I transferred planes too, and the flight crew took care of me the whole way.

[@lizzapaolia959]

Thank you for sharing this video. Unfortunately the lack of respect and morals is rampant. Slobs are all over society, no shame..... Great videos of yours 🙏

[@digitalgulby]

I hope this era comes back. We sorely need it.

[@johnroberts1141]

People are no longer civilized.

[@erwincagampan5777]

I doubt it

[@auzziernvdl]

In the 70’s, I remember watching my grandparents going back and forth to Australia from America. My Grandmother would always look like she had walked off a modeling runway. The ladies wore dresses, hats and looked so classy. NOW, a family is lucky they don’t have to explain the birds and bees to their 5 year old because of the almost naked person sitting in the next row.

[@lisalu910]

Yes, but that's not only on airplanes, that is EVERYWHERE these days.

[@Moluccan56]

One improvement, no smoking.

[@Rose-xe5fy]

I used to love flying even in the 1980's! Being walked to the gate on departure & met at the gate on arrival by loved ones was sweet too.

[@jimhays2772]

Flying in the 70s as a son of a Pan Am pilot I have come to greatly treasure those days when flying was an event that you would put a tie on and wear nice clothes. If you were in first class it was the only the best of everything even coach had great food and service not seen anymore today.

[@atrinder8944]

As a child I flew many times in the 70s with my parents and brothers. Everyone was smartly dressed, we were trusted with real knives and forks, food was served beautifully and the flight attendants were charming and immaculately dresses.

[@e.m.tanner179]

I remember how sophisticated and special it felt when I took my first flight in 1972. It was a big deal and I was very excited, yet somewhat nervous. Sad to see that flying now has become so mundane. But I still dress nicely whenever I travel, even if many other passengers don't.

[@lynnienorris5776]

Personal Pride!

[@bobbygempton5669]

I began my career as a flight attendant in the mid 70s and finally ended it in 2012 - the differences which I saw during that time lead us to where things are today. Now I absolutely loathe flying as a passenger, unless I'm in a superior class cabin. 😊

[@kawesp]

The clothes were just incredible!!!

[@Paulsapartment]

I remember those days, dad was a pilot on Pan Am and we used to fly for vacation sometimes in the sixties and it was so nice! I remember mom smoking on the plane too! Those were the days🎉

[@allesasmart]

Flying in the 70- 80's was awesome! People had manners!

[@lilybond6485]

Class.

[@mallorygraf8574]

I was at airport today and approx 95% of the people looked like they rolled out of bed. And here I was last night trying to figure out what to wear and pressing and steaming my clothes.😂

[@easydrive3662]

Im the same but once i get to the airport and look around at the trash getting onboard i realise i look decent haha

[@99trees]

If I was flying on same flight as you, you would have had at least one person who noticed and appreciated your efforts and appearance.

[@pilotrserra]

I agree totally…I only fly Delta or Emirates Airlines because if you look at the way the pilots and flight attendants are dressed, they are always manicured, wear cool hats and always pressed uniforms…classy. . I got on a United flight and I sat next to a smelly young adult with slippers and a bathrobe. Thank god there were extra seats and the flight attendant moved me to a different seat. I was on an American Airlines flight and the pilots uniform looked like it never saw an iron or ironing board. Yes, I agree. The way someone dresses says a lot about the person.

[@c.rutherford]

Its getting worse and not just there. I remember going in a Barnes & Noble a few months ago, and was embarassed because I was in t-shirt and shorts. Then I suddenly noticed most people in there looked worse than I did lol. Its funny to see classical music playing and leather chairs, and people wandering around in trailer trash clothes. Wheylp I guess the upscale store may be declared extinct. Some retail stores now too I can't even recognize who the employees are, they look skankier than the customers. I went to a Ross and two employees at the registers were wearing street hoodies... and at Menards a kid was getting carts and he had no belt and pants sagging. I was like seriously? geez lol

[@pilotrserra]

@@c.rutherford agreed…how about this one…I was stopped for a seatbelt violation because I clicked my seat on at the traffic light after a left the parking lot. The officer had a neck and face tattoo. I told him I wanted to talk to his supervisor because I truly did not he was a police officer. The supervisor came and said, “yeah, we are hiring from the bottom of the barrel. They look more like criminals than law-biding citizens.” It is out of control. We have no civility standards anymore.

[@hertzair1186]

I remember my first airline flight in 1971…we were dressed up like we were going to church.

[@rtd7066]

When one dresses, it elevates ones behaviour

[@ufosrus]

Yes, and it's not about vanity but self respect.

[@traveler320ak7]

You are absolutely correct.

[@sunandsage]

About the only thing I dress up for is church but I'm still couteous to others. By the way I'm 61.

[@frankdenardo8684]

@@traveler320ak7 I do dress up when I fly. Makes me look professional.

[@katniss4670]

@@sunandsage Yes, but you were raised differently than people are today , so even without dressing up, you have internalized the values that you were raised with.

[@dimitriosvlissides5781]

I miss the Class of those times..........

[@conniecanitano7719]

The cigarettes!! I remember these days when I was a kid, it was such a treat to fly. We dressed up like church days. Nothing but elegance! I have a photo of my mom on British Airways in a beautiful dress and a cigarette in her hand!!

[@lilybond6485]

Nice memory.

[@RamblinRick_]

I'm 72 YO. I remember those days fondly. Air travel was a fun adventure. Now a major inconvenience. I remember the TV commercials advertising the airlines. Now, there is no need to advertise.

[@donnachrismorris4340]

Geeze, did we have fun! Im old too, loved the dress up, respect, natural calm. My memories are wonderful.

[@donnachrismorris4340]

And the food!!!

[@doyledean2763]

In 1983 I had booked a trip from LA to London. One day I ran across a National Geographic from 1960. On the back cover was an ad for Pan Am, LA to London. The price was the same as what I was paying. Air travel was way expensive in those days. Flying was an event, and you were expected to dress as if you were going to church.

[@maxwellspeedwell2585]

Have you seen how they now dress in church???

[@maxwellspeedwell2585]

Have you seen how they now dress in church???

[@maxwellspeedwell2585]

Have you seen how they now dress in church???

[@maxwellspeedwell2585]

Have you seen how they now dress in church???

[@maxwellspeedwell2585]

Have you seen how they now dress in church???

[@Indiodyssey]

My first flight was an international flight on Pan Am in 1968 with my family. We were all well dressed and the food and flight was fabulous!

[@SalsBodybuildingArchives]

WOW! Good Old Days...Everything was better; not just flying. Peace, Sal

[@paulgeohegan652]

And, they were clean!

[@cmiller415]

In the 70’s I remember having to dress up to even pick someone up at the airport.

[@infinitejest.4994]

Air travel in the 60s, 70s and even the 80s was heaven. I dread every flight these days. My biggest issue - entitled passengers. 🤦🏻‍♀️

[@Teddy31976]

I didn't start flying until the late 80's but it was great! People dressed to fly, comfy, great snacks, cocktails, you could smoke if you wanted to in the smoking section...

[@lostchild2003]

I remember those "smoking sections", which pretty much encroached into much of the non smoking sections.

[@MattVenezuela]

Dec 1979 I was 17 and went on my first flight to Jamaica from Toronto, what an experience, free food, free alcohol, it was like a party all the way there...

[@carolynluckas1219]

I was born in 1961 and I even remember you would be dressed UP to fly. And meals were ACTUAL meals. People were polite and behaved. We had manners and decorum.

[@8698gil]

I was born in 1960. I remember getting dressed up to go to the airport. It was a big deal.

[@sda141]

I was too young to enjoy the elegance. But I do recall the air filled with cigarette smoke. 😊

[@monk3yboy69]

Hope those lungs are ok 🙂

[@luismh184]

Wonderful times..... Every comparison with today's flight experience is out of the question

[@gabrielhalston6726]

I'm a retired Continental Airlines flight attendant. Indeed, flying HAS changed! Continental was once known as the "Rolls Royce" of air carriers. No airline could match our inflight service. Back in the early 1970s, when we received our first 747s & DC10s, we not only had piano bars on the 747s, but our DC10s were outfitted with "Pubs", located inbetween first class and coach. It had a cocktail bar with leather couches and seating and was the only area of the aircraft where one could smoke standing up. We had fashion shows for the ladies in first class on some of our Los Angeles-Honolulu flights. We served Lobster Thermidor and other luxe dishes in coach class with linens, real silverware and such on many of our domestic flights. On another note, Pan American World Airways was the creme de la creme of world airlines. Their inflight food was catered expressly by Maxim's of Paris. Their service was the standard of the world and I always enjoyed non-revving on their flights to go overseas somewhere. Yes, EVERYBODY dressed to the nines when they flew and they were courteous and we never, ever had any onboard irregularities with customers misbehaving and such as what you see today.

[@brendajerez2235]

I remember those days! My first flight was in Pan American to San Francisco, California, from Guatemala to celebrate my 15th birthday. The service was indeed fabulous.💙💙💙💙💙💙

[@jerrycallo]

I flew Virgin Air (not that long ago) and it had pods, not seats, a pub, and an onboard masseuse. You ordered what you wanted for dinner and when you wanted to eat, and lobster was on the menu, used actual silverware and linens. That was business class. I don't know what 1st class was like. And everyone, passenger and crew, were very nice. Such a pleasure to fly.

[@nmfn2011Pine]

When me and mother and sister and baby sister flew on TWA from Albuquerque, New Mexico in 1962, we all got new clothes and shoes to wear on the plane. Mom got a new suit. Everyone dresses nicely.

[@blueskysailing]

Exactly! That's all changed now. Very sad.

[@sinabrigo]

I'm always happy to leave the plane and the airport as soon as possible after flying.

[@philip4193]

In a nutshell, air travel back then was extremely expensive by today's standards so only wealthy people could afford to fly. Which is why passengers back then were generally well dressed and well behaved, as they were educated, cultured and employed. Nowadays, anyone literally straight off the streets with 50 bucks or so in their pocket can just hop on a low-cost airline and create havoc, as we constantly see in all those alarming videos posted on social media. The experience flying Coach right now is just like catching the NYC subway...

[@gliderfan6196]

True, except they were rich, not empolyed, especially true for Europe.

[@dragonmeddler2152]

Phillip, your comments are all spot on except that it wasn't all that expensive to fly coach back then. As always, if you needed to get somewhere quickly, especially cross country or if you couldn't trust your car to get you there...

[@meganruchwatercolors7186]

When life was elegant and people were dignified and had respect!

[@josephmessina3587]

I want to cry when I see this, Nevermore!

[@IrishAnnie]

I still dress well for travel. If you look good, you feel good. Once my husband and I were bumped to first class and we weren’t wearing pajamas or yoga pants.

[@jadakowers590]

My mom HATED to fly! We took the train everywhere. Back then train travel was also elegant no matter what class you traveled. The dining cars had starched, white napkins and tablecloths for every meal. There was a club car that everyone could go to. Even the roomettes were lavishly appointed back then. I think people were not yet brainwashed into believing that looking slovenly was more comfortable and therefore in some twisted logic made you a better , more authentic person. Taking pride in one’s appearance was considered a plus not a minus.

[@jasonfrodoman1316]

True. My Mom took me by CP passenger rail from Vancouver to Toronto Canada. Around 1967 I think. I remember the dining car was white linen tablecloths and the staff were dressed to the nines. Same thing for some car ferries like BC Ferries. Can you tell I grew up in Canada...🇨🇦

[@LHLK-q2v]

we don't have many passenger trains any more.

[@DaughteroftheMostHighGod-h6c]

It’s not so much the accommodations in the planes but it’s the people. People had more restraint and respect for others. I haven’t flown since 2014 and hope I never have to get on a plane again.

[@glendabreece9767]

Bless your heart 🥰

[@DaughteroftheMostHighGod-h6c]

?

[@KB-ke3fi]

@@glendabreece9767 Enjoy Spirit airlines.

[@CraigFThompson]

TAKE THE TRAIN!

[@LHLK-q2v]

@@CraigFThompson what train, most of Canada doesn't have passenger service

[@janepowers6711]

It was wonderful to fly in the early 60’s, we definitely dressed up, including 3 inch heels - of course the in-flight service was wonderful in those days.

[@julieannesimms981]

Glad I got to experience those days😊😊😊😊😊

[@macpduff2119]

Me too

[@BakoSooner]

I'm not that old and I remember when people used to dress up to fly. Now I see people wearing pajamas. Air travel is a reflection of our societal degradation. However, flying in Asia (especially flights to Korea and Japan) still shows civility and decency that is absent on flights like Southwest and other low fare airlines.

[@johannakamstra-schickendan7380]

100% agree, the western empire is in full decline, same in high end restaurants, concerts or whatever should be a nice evening out.

[@lilybond6485]

This is very hard to watch. Gone forever. I remember as a child everyone wearing their Sunday best to fly. Now, I will only travel now in a private Roomette on Amtrak. Don’t care that it takes longer to get where I’m going - I enjoy the ride.

[@TheHistoryLounge]

What a cool alternative! I’ve always wanted to travel across the country like that. I think I’d really enjoy it too!

[@lilybond6485]

@@TheHistoryLounge If one can just relax, read, enjoy the internet, listen to music with your ear buds, watch videos, the scenery out of your window, while enjoying some wine, to me it is heaven. I travel from where I’m living now which is at the very top of the United States to the very bottom of the US where I am originally from. It takes about 25 hours - maybe a bit longer. - a few stops along the way. The trip is usually never long enough I enjoy it so much.

[@luckypenny4263]

People have really sunk low these days ! Flying was luxurious and classy

[@coptertim]

I remember going to the airport with my dad in the 50s and 60s, all the men were in suits and the ladies in gowns. With the 747 came cheap seats and the end of luxury travel.

[@cot5thorchid551]

I remember migrating legally from Ecuador via Mexico CIty to Chicago in 1969 on American Airlines. The planes and food was wonderful, the stewardsess actually looked like models and were very friendly and gracious and all the passengers dressed properly for the flight.

[@ResidentWiseacre]

Flying was an experience back then, now it’s just a means to an end. The point about architecture shouldn’t be underestimated either, not just in airports, but in all aspects of society. Also, many folks have lost their self-respect, and therefore don’t respect others.

[@rabit818]

Fabulous flying experience in the past but the smoking

[@pommiebears]

Get me, I still dress up to fly. I don’t know why, maybe it’s because I’m from working class parents, and I still see air travel as “special”! I travel quite often, internationally, from Sydney to London. I’m English, I live in Australia, but I visit my elderly parents as often as I can. Business class was pretty nice lol.

[@emmyo6678]

Same here. 🥰

[@annann4786]

Same here

[@ak5659]

Even air travel in the 80's was bliss compared to today.

[@almae3651]

That was fascinating! It must have been a pleasure to fly in those days. Never imagined standards have dropped so much, should have known!

[@quinquiry]

in those days only well off and "educated " ppl could travel ....

[@MrFgarcia140]

Very different times, people were more respectful to others, not like now

[@Claudialupper]

My dad worked for Delta...back in those days, families flew free. We flew everywhere. I remember my Mom getting dressed up for air travel, including hats; I always wore a dress and for some reason gloves and a hat. Delta gave out perks like decks of cards. Stewardesses looked glamorous. We all felt so excited to fly. Those were the days. Now we are treated like criminals at the airport. Don't want to fly anymore.

[@powerwagon3731]

I worked for Continental in the eighties, yes my family flew for free but we were required to wear slacks and ties including my young children. Life is much cruder now.

[@solangelauthier2381]

It those days flight attendants looked like fashion models. Now they look like cleaning women.

[@lavernedofelmier6496]

I was born in 1950 , people’s mind set is so much different today in the air and also on our roads. Travel is no longer enjoyable for me.

[@karenpigott8383]

I was a young teen during this time and flew a few times with my parents. I couldn’t wait to get “all dressed up” for the flight. Oh and the meals were awesome! I wanted to be a stewardess but one thing held me back- fear of flighing😂

[@karenpigott8383]

oops* flying*

[@MsBonijoni]

. . 😔 same here, now it’s just too much work and worry . . and people back then smiled to be respectful or courteous . . . not today

[@garyfrancis6193]

Me 2.

[@big_red_machine3547]

Our society has lost all class. The last good flight I took was in 1992 from Toronto to Amsterdam on a 747. I drank and smoked copious amounts of free booze up in the lounge, ate like a king and the Dutch stewardesses were gorgeous and “not over 130 pounds! “

[@thecompozer8285]

The contrast between today's air travel and yesteryear surely displays the devolution of our society. The first time I flew in 1986 I wore a suit lol...I just didn't know any better that track pants were the flying attire of the 80's. Great video , I love this channel.

[@jeannehall6546]

My brother-in-law is an airline captain and we still dress nicely (skirts or dress pants, dress shirts or sweaters- Sunday-go-to-Meeting-type). It’s good promotion for the airline and people comment on how nice we look!

[@marmeone]

More evidence that the flying experience has DEVOLVED!

[@Lee-r8w5e]

The airlines of today aren’t concerned about quality of service, they’re interested in quantity of profit. When you crowd people into a small space you encourage fights and bad behavior. There are many behavioral studies on this yet the airlines ignore and dispute these realities. I’m 73 so I remember traveling during the ‘golden age’ and people respected themselves as well as others back then. There is no such thing today. It reminds of the title of the ‘Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire’ book, only this is an example, one of many, of the fall of America.

[@LHLK-q2v]

garbage the behavior starts before they board

[@Lee-r8w5e]

@@LHLK-q2v yes it does, but it truly presents itself in a confined and crowded space, such as an aircraft.

[@LHLK-q2v]

@@Lee-r8w5e no it presents while waiting as well

[@LHLK-q2v]

Quit blaming it on the airlines when one can't go to the toilet because someone has messed all over it or thrown up in their seat or so drunk they are knocking people about why provide anything nice.

[@Mostopinionatedmanofalltime]

Even the 80s were a golden time for air travel.😊

[@ak5659]

Compared to today? Definitely yes.

[@lilybond6485]

It was glorious. God I miss those days.

[@stinestotzel2671]

I am a vintage dresser, 1930s/40s, and with the exception of business men traveling, I usually stand out from the other passengers. Living in Andalucía, Spain, my home airport is Málaga and you can see some outrageous outfits there. From the poolside directly to the Airport, to give you an idea.

[@briankelly85]

flying today is like riding the NYC subway. the last days of the roman empire. we are devolving!

[@peterjohnson1734]

There are benefits to modern day air travel such as cost (adjusted for inflation) and safety, but class and comfort are long gone. Back in the days of more civilized travelers and before invasive security checks, it was definitely a more pleasant experience.

[@RexRoberts-hk3wj]

The saying. “ you never realize what you have until it’s gone “. Those were the days.🇺🇸😎

[@Nick-1992-SRB]

That’s so fucking true you never appreciate what you have until it’s gone.

[@SurlyShirley]

My parents, brother and I flew to Canada from Germany. They were definitely not wealthy, blue collar in fact, but they had saved hard for that trip. We all got new fancy clothes, just for the trip and that’s how it was. Everyone was pleasant and yes, we got our meals on real porcelain dishes. That was before we immigrated to Canada. Now, when my husband and fly over to Europe it is a whole different experience. The planes are not very clean, the washrooms are filthy, the meals are barely passable and everyone in Economy is squeezed in like cattle. Add to that, rude passengers and some looking like they just rolled out of bed (very unclean) and the whole experience is awful. I am always overjoyed when I have reached my destination.

[@RawSkit1977]

If I had a time machine, I'd go back to 1960 or before that without a doubt.

[@CraigFThompson]

How about to the 20s, so you, among others, could stop the machinations of the automotive industry and energy corporations as they caused the dismantling of rail-based passenger transportation, thus forcing people to use either the automobile (car, BUS, and TRUCK) and the airplane, both fuel-intensive transportation modes which pollute the environment in which we must exist?!

[@taotaostrong]

The airport used to be so much fun. People dressed up and behaved themselves. It feels like a bus station now. If people insist on showing up in pajamas, they should at least wear clean ones that match. I also wish they would put some shoes on. Good Lord!!!!

[@christineharmon6129]

I rode Greyhound many times 50 years ago and people behaved. Nothing to do with cost of ticket and lower class causing the issues. We’re in an age of everyone is crying “ my rights”. Well newsflash: you’re rights do not supersede mine or anyone else’s! The world does not revolve around only you. People need to remember they live in a community. Teamwork is not exclusive to the sports fields. Remember the basics you learned in kindergarten!

[@dragonmeddler2152]

Excellent comment, Christine. I, too, took Trailways or Greyhound occasionally in the 1950s & 1960s and confirm your observation that my fellow riders were always civil. Didn't make any difference where they got on--big city or a country crossroads.

[@heru-deshet359]

It was pure class all the way. Air hostess were gorgeous and very polite. I remember traveling with my parents in a suit, getting a full three course meal and souvenir gifts from the pilot themselves. The 60s and 70s air travel were amazing.

[@drac124]

Except the smoking indoors and you couldn't do anything. I remember when I fly and I wanted to grab the emergency mask to breathe a little but wasn't allowed.

[@WaltzingAustralia]

I remember so much of that era with great fondness. Glad smoking is gone, but I miss everything else.

[@rubydawn1]

I think that at that time we dressed up for everything

[@sheilabloom6735]

We did.

[@sherriianiro747]

We looked better too!

[@sherriianiro747]

We looked better too!

[@RS-gl9ht]

You’re right - there were standards of dress for all sorts of occasions. Today’s generation would roll about laughing to hear that!

[@rubydawn1]

@@sheilabloom6735 lol until we got around the corner than we would hike up our tunics to mini tunic

[@m.rizadjoeli357]

I was born in 1969 Eventhough i had never experienced flying at that time, i saw the difference in politeness and manners. Passengers respect each other, because at that time planes were luxury item not everyone can fly by plane only the rich...

[@pksmith1275]

Mom and I used to get dressed up to take the bus downtown to the big department stores. All the women were dressed up. Those days are long gone, sadly.

[@caroleappling2007]

Yes, I remember, it was such a treat.

[@ignaciogomez3381]

The piano bar is the best idea ever❤

[@annann4786]

The biggest fear I have when flying nowadays is who will seat next to me.

[@alipainting]

My greatest flying fear would be getting put on a Boeing

[@ЧитаДрита-ш9ю]

😂😂😂

[@pilotrserra]

@@alipainting Boeing was a great company until McDonnell Douglas merged with Boeing. The military industrial complex is the greediest most corrupt corporation in the world…and we all support them. That is sad.

[@lisadefries6718]

Then fly with a friend or loved one . Then you know exactly who will be next to you 😊

[@docreyaz2370]

I have same concern while getting to fly

[@the-flatulator]

I remember when comfort was the priority with huge seats in economy class. Flew to London from Australia and in today's world would have been first class. Real glasses & cups for drinks and coffee, proper cutlery and more. One hour before landing all the ladies ran off to do their makeup too.

[@atatterson6992]

I had forgotten the make up thing... thank you!

[@Ben-xe8ps]

This 'huge seats in Economy' thing is a MYTH. What year was this? If it was in the 60's or 70's on a 707 or VC10 then the 3 X 3 economy seating would be exactly the same width as any narrow body aircraft such as a 737 today as the width of such aircraft has not changed. If it was on a launch configuration 747 in the 70's then the seats would have been very slightly wider as the launch configuration for the 747 was 2 X 4 X 3 instead of 3 X 4 X 3, which offered a very slightly wider seat and aisle. If it was on a 747 after about 1980 seats would have been same width as today which is when most airlines changed to 3 X 4 X 3. A bit more legroom yes, standard long haul seat pitch was usually 34 inches, about midway between today's economy and premium economy seat pitches. Your economy journey experience would in no way be anywhere near comparable to a flight in long haul First Class today.

[@the-flatulator]

@@Ben-xe8ps 747 in 1972. The seats were much wider than now. Very different to now.

[@Ben-xe8ps]

@@the-flatulator In 1972 a launch configuration 747 wold have been 9 abreast in Y, 2 X 4 X 3 instead of 3 X 4 X 3. Now I agree that both the seat and aisle would have been slightly wider in a 2 X 4 X 3 configuration than in the later 10 abreast 3 X 4 X 3 configuration but 'much wider' is a bit of an exaggeration. Like you I am old enough to have flown on 747's in that configuration.

[@the-flatulator]

@@Ben-xe8ps Wouldn't configuration depend on the airline. I'm in Australia and it was a Qantas 747, possibly the 747-200. My recollection was thick comfortable cushions, padded armrests. Ashtrays and short skirts on staff. Flew Sydney to London with four stops I think. Also did the return flight 18 months later but via the USA. Did the same trip in 1974 and the experience was similar.