KLM Flying Dutchman - The way it used to be... 1953

How does a 7 course champagne dinner, a full length SleepAir lounge chair, a trans-atlantic plane with only 24 seats and an on-board bar and lounge sound? That's what KLM was offering back in 1953! (http://scriptorium.lib.duke.edu/adaccess/T/T13/T1361-150dpi.jpeg)

For the overstretched budget they also offered regular de luxe and air tourist services. (http://scriptorium.lib.duke.edu/adaccess/T/T13/T1354-150dpi.jpeg)

Oh, how far we've come :)

-- Dambus

Interestingly the prices are about the same as now for "economy." Amazing after 50 years - says alot about the efficiencies gained in comercial aviation.

$241 one way for coach comes out to about $1,500 each way ($2,700 RT using their 10% discount) in today's dollars. You also have to buy meals on board for that.

Interestingly, you can get a discounted business class ticket for that kind of money today.

I just missed out on all that, alas! I have no recollection whatsover of my only flight on a KL Connie, presumably because I was still in my mother's womb.

johan