The Essentials

Oldest Airlines

We all like to fly experienced airlines. But the age of some carriers might surprise you.

The world’s oldest airline will soon celebrate its 100th birthday. It’s KLM. The airline was started in October 1919.

The second oldest airline might also surprise you. It’s south of the border. Avianca is the national airline of Colombia.

And how about another oldie? Qantas dates back to 1920.

But the oldest airline in the U.S. title belongs to Delta. It was founded in 1924.