05/24/2026
Celebrating 100 Years of Western Airlines: The Only Way to Fly! âď¸ Red Tail Tribute
A century ago, an aviation pioneer took flight. Today, we mark 100 years since the founding of Western Airlinesâthe legendary carrier that taught the American West how to fly, before merging with Delta Air Lines on April 1, 1987.
From its April 1926 roots flying open-cockpit airmail biplanes to the glamorous dawn of the jet age, Western wasn't just a way to travel; it was the ultimate definition of West Coast hospitality.
A Century of Flying History
These incredible archive photos capture the evolution of a legend:
The Commuter Pioneer:Â Vintage mid-century signs highlight Western's early days as an economic lifeline, linking cities like Cheyenne, Billings, and Calgary, and proudly supporting the Rocky Mountain petroleum industry.
The Jet Age Icon: Western's clean white-and-red styling and iconic "Flying W" livery defined the skies of the late 1960s. From the nimble Boeing 737 Twinjet cruising above the clouds to the sleek tri-engine Boeing 727 soaring over snow-capped peaks, Western brought unmatched style to the skies.
The Legacy Lives On
Western didn't just fly; it innovated. From offering passengers the famous "Champagne Flights" to introducing the world to the beloved, relaxed Wally Bird mascot, it earned its reputation as "The Only Way to Fly!"
When Western merged into Delta in 1987, its DNA became the foundation of modern West Coast travel. Deltaâs massive hubs at LAX and Salt Lake City today stand as a direct legacy of Western's historic route network.
To the crews who flew them, the mechanics who maintained them, and the passengers who loved them: Happy 100th Anniversary to a true pioneer of the skies.
Did you ever fly the "Flying W"? Share your favorite Western Airlines memories or favorite routes in the comments! đ
