How the Commercial Aircraft Interior Design Industry was Born - Post WW2 Air Travel

 

With the development of new long range passenger aircraft,  the way was opened for both continental and international air travel. American boys and girls (by now men and women) had been introduced en masse to Europe and Asia, the American Dollar was king and the un-bombed American industry was booming. Adventurous airline, pioneers and newcomers alike, were excited about the new idea of AIR TRAVEL for ALL not just the ELITE. 

With this idea the need to make air travel attractive became a priority. These planes were still piston engine powered, meaning it took 14 hours to fly from NY to London. You were in your flying environment for a very long time thus sparking the inspiration to involve the new profession - industrial designers - in the engineering process to create a pleasant, relaxing atmosphere. (The idea was not new but the impact at this time was much greater.) 

With a rapidly expanding economy Americans in particular were hungry for a great new world leaving behind the austerity of the war and the problems of the long depression. They were fresh from winning a huge world war which by winning, reinforced the optimistic “Can Do” American spirit. 

The “Sleeping Giant” had indeed been awakened! Into this hubris strode Charles W. Butler to design the interiors of a major number of commercial aircraft of the 50's, 60's and early 70's. His designing was not restricted to aircraft alone but extended to ticket offices, aircraft terminals, graphics, gate-hold areas, signage, air attendants uniforms, etc.