Advertisement

Then and now: 22 photos that prove air travel isn't what it once was

Spot the difference
Spot the difference

United Airlines found itself embroiled in a fashion row last week - and accused of sexism - after it refused to allow two teenage girls on board a flight because they were wearing leggings.

While Telegraph Travel cannot condone the carrier's dress code (applicable to all those travelling on discounted “buddy passes” for friends and family of employees, United says), the relaxed attire of today's air passengers is a far cry from the buttoned up fliers of yore. As the following images demonstrate...

Air passengers then

One lump or two? - Credit: GETTY
One lump or two? Credit: GETTY

Air passengers now

Air passengers then

Would sir care for a top-up? - Credit: GETTY
Would sir care for a top-up? Credit: GETTY

Air passengers now

Then

Just catching 40 winks, darling - Credit: GETTY
Just catching 40 winks, darling Credit: GETTY

Now

Flying in the "golden age"

Look - proper plates!
Look - proper plates!

Flying today

Golden

Shaken not stirred
Shaken not stirred

Not so golden

Then

Canapés, madam? - Credit: GETTY
Canapés, madam? Credit: GETTY

Now

Smart

Golden age of flying
Golden age of flying

Sordid

Glamorous

Golden age of flying
Golden age of flying

Grim

Immaculate

Your Scandinavian Defense has bested me again, Meredith
Your Scandinavian Defense has bested me again, Meredith

Casual

Heaven

First time to Benidorm?
First time to Benidorm?

Hell

Then 

And how long have you been married to Mr Bean?
And how long have you been married to Mr Bean?

Now