Longest Aviation Businesses Continuing to Fly
In the ever-evolving world of aviation, a select few carriers have managed to maintain their positions as pillars of the industry, having weathered the test of time while continuing to innovate and expand their operations. Here is a look at some of the oldest airlines still operating today, along with their notable features and global reach.
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, founded in 1919, holds the distinction of being the oldest airline in the world still operating under its original name. After World War II, it was the first continental European airline to start scheduled transatlantic flights (Amsterdam to New York, 1946). KLM has continuously expanded its international network and modernized its fleet since its inception, maintaining a strong presence in Europe and worldwide. Headquartered in Amstelveen, Netherlands, KLM operates flights to over 145 destinations globally and is a member of the SkyTeam airline alliance.
British Airways, with its corporate roots dating back to 1916, is another key player in global air travel. Though the current airline is a product of mergers, it traces back to early historic British aviation companies, making it a significant player in the development of commercial aviation. British Airways operates flights to over 85 destinations worldwide and is also a member of the SkyTeam alliance.
Grand Canyon Airlines, originally known as Scenic Airways, was founded in 1927. Initially serving scenic tours and regional flights, it is notable for being one of the oldest airlines with continuous operation. The airline focuses on niche routes, especially over the Grand Canyon for tourism.
Philippine Airlines (PAL), officially founded in 1941 but with roots dating back to 1930 through the Philippine Aerial Taxi Company (PATCO), is the oldest airline in Asia still operating under its current name. PAL played a foundational role in Asian commercial aviation development and has maintained continuous service since its establishment. It operates flights to over 60 destinations globally.
Tata Airlines, now known as Air India, was founded in 1932. One of the world's first major airlines, Tata Airlines eventually became Air India. It laid the groundwork for commercial aviation in India and Asia with early scheduled services and routes expanding post-independence. Air India operates flights to over 100 destinations globally and is the national airline of India.
Other notable airlines include Czech Airlines, the flag carrier of the Czech Republic, founded in 1923. With a fleet of over 50 aircraft, Czech Airlines operates flights to over 60 destinations globally and is a member of the SkyTeam airline alliance. Known for its strong safety record and commitment to customer satisfaction, Czech Airlines is a significant player in European aviation.
Aeroflot, the flag carrier of Russia, was also founded in 1923. With a fleet of over 250 aircraft, Aeroflot operates flights to over 150 destinations globally and is a member of the SkyTeam airline alliance. Aeroflot is renowned for its commitment to customer satisfaction and innovative business practices.
Lastly, Qantas Airways, the flag carrier of Australia, was founded in 1920. Qantas operates flights to over 85 destinations worldwide and is a founding member of the Oneworld airline alliance.
These airlines stand out for their longevity, pioneering roles in commercial aviation, and continued operation, either under original or evolved corporate identities, maintaining strong historical legacies and operational networks globally.
In the global finance sector, these airlines, including KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, British Airways, Grand Canyon Airlines, Philippine Airlines, Tata Airlines (Air India), Czech Airlines, Aeroflot, and Qantas Airways, have demonstrated significant capital investment and continuous growth within the aerospace industry, contributing significantly to transportation infrastructure.
These airlines, with histories stretching back to the 1910s and 1920s, have not only survived but thrived in the competitive landscape of transportation, showcasing their resilience and adaptability within the finance, aerospace, and transportation industries.
