Today we entertain ourselves on long flights with seat back videos or our own electronic devices but not so long ago its was very different.
No movies, no devices, what did passengers do….read a book, play drafts, play chess, have a smoke or just chat.
We open our collection of Boeing and Douglas archive pictures to give you glimpse of the way it was.
Building a house of cards on a Comet
Playing chess on a Boeing 707
Playing drafts on a Douglas DC-8
Chatting with the captain
Discussing a business presentation
Taking a cigarette in the lounge on a DC-7
Solitaire on a DC-8
Discuss a destination with a fellow passenger
Family gathering to discuss the trip
Meeting fellow passengers in the lounge of a DC-8
Photo Credits: Boeing Historical Archives
About 42kft.com
At 42 Thousand Feet (42kft.com), we bring you factual, insightful airline news—cutting through the noise to deliver what truly matters to airline passengers, aviation enthusiasts and industry professionals.
Why the name? 42,000 feet marks the uppermost cruising altitude of today’s commercial aircraft, and just like those soaring jets, we aim to elevate your understanding of the aviation world. Our goal is simple: to help readers and subscribers stay ahead of the curve, making sense of both the present and the future of this ever-evolving industry.
With over 50 years of passion for aviation, our commitment has always been to get the facts right and present them in a way that’s both accurate and easy to grasp. After all, aviation is one of the most complex industries—often defying common logic. For example, strength in aviation isn’t about rigidity but flexibility, just like the remarkable bend of a wing in flight.
Beyond news, 42kft is home to the world’s first environmental rankings and our unique take on inflight product rankings:
Environmental Rankings – Unlike others that focus on distant “grand plans”, we recognize airlines taking real action today to reduce their carbon footprint.
Product Rankings – Instead of just reviewing current offerings, we reward long-term commitment—airlines investing in new aircraft and cabin innovations that will shape the passenger experience for years to come.
At 42kft, we don’t just report aviation news—we help you rise above it.
