15 Retro Airline Services That Are No Longer Offered
Take a nostalgic flight through 15 airline services from the past that vanished with time.
- Chris Graciano
- 3 min read

Flying used to be a glamorous and personalized experience. They were filled with comforts you’d never see on a plane today. Airlines once competed in customer service. Here’s a look back at the discontinued airline perks that made flying feel like a luxury.
1. In-Flight Pianos and Lounges
Clemens Vasters on Flickr
In the 1970s, airlines like American and United installed piano bars on wide-body jets. Passengers could sip cocktails while enjoying live music mid-air. It was luxury in the skies — until fuel costs and safety regulations grounded the fun.
2. Full Meals in Economy (No Extra Cost)
Patty on Flickr
Airlines once served complimentary multi-course meals even on domestic coach flights. Think real silverware, warm bread rolls, and dessert trays.
3. Printed Menus in All Classes
Saschaporsche on Wikimedia Commons
Flight attendants used to hand out printed menus detailing in-flight cuisine, even in economy. It added a sense of sophistication and choice. Today’s service often boils down to a quick “chicken or pasta” decision — if anything is offered at all.
4. Free Checked Baggage
Downtowngal on Wikimedia Commons
Not long ago, your first checked bag came at no cost. Airlines now charge for nearly everything, including carry-ons.
5. Onboard Smoking Sections
Kashif Mardani on Wikimedia Commons
Decades ago, smoking on planes was common, with designated sections in the cabin. The smell lingered for hours, and non-smokers had little relief. Thankfully, health and safety concerns ended this policy in the late ‘90s.
6. Unlimited Alcohol in Coach
Xianxing on Wikimedia Commons
There was a time when even coach passengers could enjoy complimentary beer, wine, or spirits. It was part of the service, not an upsell. Today, alcohol is either limited or costs extra — unless you’re flying premium.
7. Personalized Service from Flight Attendants
Kenny Eliason on Unsplash
Flight attendants once memorized frequent flyers’ names and preferences. You felt known and valued. Today, the service is polite but often hurried and impersonal due to tighter schedules and staffing cuts.
8. Glamorous Flight Attendant Uniforms
Lukas Souza on Unsplash
Airlines competed with fashion-forward uniforms — think mod-inspired skirts, scarves, and hats. Some even collaborated with top designers.
9. Kids’ In-Flight Gift Bags
Joe Shlabotnik on Flickr
Children used to receive coloring books, toys, and games onboard. It made flying fun and kept little travelers entertained.
10. Free Headphones and Blankets
Jetstar Airways on Wikimedia Commons
Not so long ago, airlines handed out headphones, pillows, and blankets without charge. Now, many carriers either charge a fee or offer low-quality versions.
11. Lounge Access with Any International Ticket
SuperJet International on Wikimedia Commons
Flying internationally used to come with complimentary lounge access — even in economy class on some airlines. It meant snacks, comfy chairs, and a quiet escape.
12. Printed Boarding Pass Booklets
mroach on Flickr
Before mobile check-ins, passengers received detailed, branded boarding pass booklets that often included flight info, terminal maps, and even city guides. They added a sense of occasion to travel. Now, it’s all QR codes and smartphone screens.
13. Real Silverware in Economy Class
PxHere
Economy meals came with metal utensils, not plastic. It reflected the dignity that airlines once gave to all passengers. The shift to disposable cutlery signaled a broader drop in service standards.
14. Airline Playing Cards and Souvenirs
Luke Lai on Flickr
Carriers like Pan Am and TWA handed out branded playing cards and keepsakes. These tokens made flying memorable. Such thoughtful extras have all but vanished in today’s cost-driven environment.
15. Walk-Up Ticket Counters with No Security Lines
Edwin Petrus on Unsplash
There was a time you could stroll up to an airline counter, buy a ticket, and be on a flight within minutes — no ID, no TSA lines. Flying felt casual and accessible.