Longstanding Aviation Firms Continuing to Fly
In the skies above us, several airlines have stood the test of time, maintaining their original names and continuous operations since their founding. Here, we delve into four such airlines that have left a lasting impression in the aviation industry.
First up is KLM, the oldest airline still operating under its original name. Founded on the 7th of October, 1919, this Dutch carrier began scheduled service between Amsterdam and London in 1920. Despite a 2004 merger with Air France, KLM continues to operate as a subsidiary, maintaining its iconic KLM name. As a member of the SkyTeam alliance, KLM serves over 145 destinations in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
Next, we have Czech Airlines, the flag carrier of the Czech Republic. Established in 1923 as Czechoslovak State Airlines, the airline changed its name to Czech Airlines in 1995. Despite the name change, the airline maintains a continuous operation since its inception. Czech Airlines joined the Star Alliance in 2020 and operates flights to over 60 destinations globally.
Finnair, founded as Aero O/Y in 1923, is another airline that has retained its original name, albeit with a change to Finnair in 1968. Finnair is part of the oneworld alliance and serves over 100 destinations with a fleet of over 160 aircraft.
Lastly, we have Philippine Airlines (PAL), the oldest airline in Asia still operating under its original name. Although officially founded in 1941, PAL traces its operational lineage to the Philippine Aerial Taxi Company (PATCO) established in 1930. PAL is a member of the oneworld alliance and operates flights to over 85 destinations with a fleet of over 50 aircraft.
These airlines have not only stood the test of time but have also made significant contributions to the aviation industry. Their continued success is a testament to their dedication to customer satisfaction, innovative business practices, and safety.
KLM's enduring presence in the aviation industry, with operations under its original name since 1919, exemplifies a lifestyle of consistent and iconic branding, as it serves over 145 destinations in various continents and remains a member of the SkyTeam alliance despite a merger with Air France.
Czech Airlines, established in 1923 and operating under various names until 1995, maintains a steady travel schedule despite its name change, currently operating flights to over 60 destinations globally as a member of the Star Alliance.
