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TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - When you think of airlines, sleek modern jets and first-class lounges may come to mind. But did you know that some airlines have been flying the skies for over a century?
Despite their long journey, these air carriers have stood the test of time and have continued to improve their services to consistently deliver the best flying experience to all passengers.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at ten of the oldest airlines in the world, featuring the likes of KML, Delta Air Lines, and British Airways. Read on to find the complete list.
List of the Oldest Airlines in the World
The information below is based on CNN Travel, Simple Flying, and the official websites of the respective airlines. Dutch flag carrier, KML, will be the world’s oldest airline that is still operating today, with history tracing back to 1919. The rest is as follows:
1. KLM
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is named the oldest airline in the world still operating under its original name. The air carrier has a history of over 100 years, with its first flight commenced in May 1920.
It was founded in 1919, with an underlying intention to connect Amsterdam. In 2023, KLM was awarded the APEX World Class Award for the best airline for passengers.
2. Avianca
Avianca started its journey in 1919 with a group of German immigrants in Barranquilla. Initially known as SCADTA, it changed its name to what it is now after merging with another Colombian airline, SACO, in 1949.
Today, Avianca has grown to become a major player in Latin America, boasting an extensive network of subsidiaries and a large fleet consisting of over 130 aircraft.
3. Qantas
An Australian-based air carrier with a history dating back to 1920, Qantas, which stands for Queensland and Northern Territory Aerial Services, has been operating for around 105 years. As the name suggests, Qantas was initially aimed at providing services to tropical and sparsely populated lands of Northern Australia.
The airline continues to be a popular choice among travelers in the present day, having transported 21.3 million passengers back in 2022. Moreover, Qantas maintains its position as a prominent figure in the aviation industry and is now recognized as one of Australia's largest airlines.
4. Aeroflot
Aeroflot is Russia’s flagship carrier and one of the oldest airlines still in operation. It remains significant in the global aviation market, carrying approximately 25.2 million passengers in 2023.
It is also worth mentioning that Aeroflot is applauded for its punctuality among the largest airlines in the world.
5. Czech Airlines
Coming in fifth place is Czech Airlines, having been operating since 1923. The airline played a key role in providing air travel services in Czechoslovakia, and it was the first to operate a jet-only connection between Prague and Moscow.
Czech Airlines has unfortunately declared bankruptcy in 2021 after being severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, CNN Travel reported that it is currently in the process of reorganization, managed by Prague City Air.
6. Finnair
The year 1924 saw the first flight of Finnair, which was originally recognized as Aero O/Y. Finnair's primary operations center on serving as a hub for Europe, North America, and Asia. In fact, it was the first European airline to offer a direct flight route between Europe and China.
7. Delta Air Lines
With a humble beginning, starting as a crop-dusting operation in 1924, Delta Air Lines continues to prove its significance in the aviation industry by becoming one of the most punctual airlines in the world.
Delta demonstrates a strong track record of departing and arriving on time, with 83.46 percent on-time arrivals in 2024, as per Condé Nast Traveler. Given its customer-focused approach, Delta remains a go-to for American fliers, accommodating an impressive 141.6 million passengers in 2022.
8. Air Serbia
Air Serbia, formerly branded as Aeroput and Jat Airways, was founded in 1927. This Balkan airline has a rich history and has rebranded over the years. Historically speaking, the airline got its name after Etihad purchased 49 percent of the company’s stake in 2013, which led to a major recapitalization and rebranding operation.
9. Iberia
Iberia took off in 1927. It was once under the management of the government but underwent privatization in 2001. Nine years later, Iberia merged with British Airways and it is now part of the International Airlines Group (IAG).
10. British Airways
British Airways rounds off our list of the oldest airlines in the world, with a controversial year of foundation. While British Airways was officially formed in 1974 through a merger, its roots trace back to 1919, commencing its first flight in August 1919.
Regardless of the clarity of its foundation, British Airways firmly stands by its commitment to providing passengers with exceptional services and safe flights.
From KML to British Airways, these airlines have demonstrated their resilience and maintained their market position by adapting to the evolving demands of air travel, further solidifying their legacies in the sky.
For more similar content, check out our previous list of the safest airlines in the world, promising you an enjoyable flight and peace of mind.
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