Airline commercials are more than just ads—they’re snapshots of history, culture, and sometimes, pure genius. From laugh-out-loud humor to breathtaking storytelling, these commercials have stuck with us long after their release.
Here are 10 of the most shocking, hilarious, and memorable airline ads ever made, guaranteed to take you on a nostalgic flight.
1. Virgin Atlantic – “25 Years, Still Red Hot”
This ad was a total attention-grabber.
Imagine a gloomy, gray 1984 Britain, where everything looks dull and lifeless. Suddenly, Virgin Atlantic’s crew strides onto the scene in bright red uniforms, looking glamorous, confident, and undeniably sexy.
Backed by the sultry beats of Frankie Goes to Hollywood’s “Relax,” it was bold, edgy, and totally unapologetic. Virgin wasn’t just selling flights—they were selling attitude.
Why It Was Controversial:
While it certainly made waves back in the 80s, the ad wouldn’t fly as easily today (pun intended). The women in the ad were hyper-sexualized, with the camera focusing on their curves and outfits in a way that screamed “male gaze.” And let’s be real: the focus wasn’t on the pilots or male crew—it was on the women, reinforcing the stereotype that female flight attendants were there to be eye candy.
Would It Be Okay Today?
Probably not. Today’s viewers are far more attuned to issues like sexism and objectification, and ads like this would likely face backlash for reducing women to symbols of sex appeal. Modern airlines, like Virgin itself, now emphasize inclusivity, professionalism, and empowerment over glamorizing stereotypes.
Why It’s Still on This List:
Controversial or not, this ad worked. It shocked people, got them talking, and perfectly captured the rebellious, flashy personality Virgin Atlantic was going for. It stood out in a crowded market by saying, “We’re not your boring, traditional airline. We’re fun, sexy, and different.” Like it or not, you can’t deny its impact.
2. KLM – “100 Years Anniversary”
Turning 100 years old is no small feat, and KLM nailed it with their centennial ad.
It’s not flashy but it’s a sentimental, feel-good journey through the airline’s history.
The ad features beautiful imagery of passengers and crew over the decades, capturing the dreams, excitement, and emotional connections that flying brings.
Why It’s Special:
This one hit me right in the feels. It’s not just about celebrating 100 years of planes in the air—it’s about people. Watching this ad makes you think about all the stories tied to flying: reunions, first trips abroad, even tearful goodbyes.
Why It’s Here:
KLM didn’t just mark a milestone; they invited everyone to celebrate with them. The ad shows how airlines aren’t just about getting from point A to B—they’re part of life’s biggest moments.
3. Alaska Airlines – “80s Commercial”
Way ahead of its time, this Alaska Airlines commercial hilariously predicted the airline cutbacks we’re all too familiar with today.
From legroom disappearing to snacks vanishing into thin air, the ad pokes fun at “no-frills flying” in such a ridiculous way that it feels more like a comedy sketch than a commercial—and that’s what makes it so memorable.
Why It’s Funny:
I couldn’t help but laugh at how absurd some of the scenarios were, but here’s the kicker: what felt over-the-top in the 80s has actually become reality.
Watching it now, it’s impossible not to think of budget airlines like Spirit or Ryanair that charge for everything short of breathing. It’s funny, but also a little too real!
Why It’s Here:
This ad nails it with its humor and relatability. Even decades later, it’s still clever, relevant, and proof that Alaska Airlines has always aimed to go above and beyond. It’s a reminder that flying doesn’t have to mean giving up all the good stuff.
4. Emirates – “Jennifer Aniston Discovers Economy”
Emirates is famous for luxury, but this ad starring Jennifer Aniston flips the script in a funny and heartwarming way.
Aniston shocks everyone by happily trading her fancy first-class seat with a little boy’s mom to hang out in economy. She’s genuinely excited about all the amenities there, making even coach look appealing.
Why It Works:
This ad is so charming because it’s playful and unexpected. Jennifer Aniston, who’s known for her glamorous Hollywood image, embraces the “regular passenger” vibe and makes economy class seem like a blast. Emirates manages to promote its luxury services and affordability all in one go.
Why It’s Here:
Emirates managed to make economy look good without losing its luxury image. The ad struck the perfect balance between aspirational and approachable, making it memorable for travelers on any budget.
5. Turkish Airlines – “Messi vs. Kobe”
What do you get when two legends—Lionel Messi and Kobe Bryant—compete for the best selfie? A viral hit!
Why It’s Fun:
This ad is pure genius. The playful rivalry between Messi and Kobe makes it light, funny, and entertaining.
Why It’s Here:
Turkish Airlines knew exactly how to capture global attention with two sports icons. Pairing two sports icons was a marketing slam dunk (pun intended). Turkish Airlines knew exactly how to grab worldwide attention by featuring two of the most famous athletes ever.
6. Lufthansa – “Facing Your Idol”
This Lufthansa ad is the perfect mix of humor and childhood innocence.
It begins at the airport, where the Bayern Munich soccer team has just arrived. Among the crowd of excited fans, a young boy is standing with his pen and notebook, clearly thrilled to meet his heroes.
One of the team’s biggest stars, Philipp Lahm, walks up to the boy to sign an autograph. But in a hilarious twist, the boy grabs his pen, spins around, and runs straight to the pilot—because for him, the real hero isn’t on the soccer field; it’s the one who flew the plane!
Why It’s Funny:
The setup makes you think it’s all about soccer fandom, only to flip the script in the most unexpected (and adorable) way.
Why It’s Here:
It’s a reminder that flying, especially for kids, is an adventure full of awe and inspiration. Plus, it’s a subtle nod to the pride pilots bring to their role—because, let’s face it, they are pretty cool. This ad is memorable because it leaves you smiling and feeling the wonder of air travel.
7. Braniff – “The Air Strip”
In 1966, Braniff International dropped one of the boldest airline ads ever: the “Air Strip.” This commercial turned heads by featuring flight attendants doing a striptease —well, sort of.
The attendants peeled off layers of their Emilio Pucci-designed uniforms to reveal a fresh outfit underneath, turning the aisle into a fashion runway.
It was all part of Braniff’s plan to make flying feel stylish, modern, and a little bit cheeky.
Why It Stood Out:
Braniff wasn’t afraid to take risks and shake things up in a way no other airline had dared to try. At the time, it was seen as glamorous, creative, and just the right amount of shocking, making it the talk of the industry.
Why It’s Iconic:
The “Air Strip” put Braniff on the map as the fun, fashionable airline. It showed that taking risks and thinking outside the box could completely redefine an airline’s image and make it unforgettable.
8. United Airlines – “Nancy’s First Day”
United Airlines took a more heartfelt approach with this ad, which follows Nancy, a nervous new flight attendant on her first day.
It’s a sweet, simple story that shows the human side of the airline industry.
Why It Feels Personal:
Everyone remembers the nerves of starting a new job, and the ad makes you root for Nancy as she finds her confidence. It’s warm, genuine, and focuses on the people who make flying special.
Why It’s Here:
While many airline ads focus on passengers, this one shines a spotlight on the crew, reminding us of the hard work and heart behind every flight.
9. British Airways – “Face”
This ad shows hundreds of people coming together to form a giant human face, symbolizing connection and unity. Paired with Gabriel Fauré’s emotional “Pavane,” it’s powerful and artistic.
Why It’s Stunning:
It’s not just an ad—it’s a visual masterpiece. British Airways took something simple (the idea of connection) and turned it into something unforgettable. Watching it gives you chills.
Why It’s Here:
This ad is still considered one of the best airline commercials of all time. It’s timeless, emotional, and perfectly captures the magic of travel.
10. Pan Am – “World’s Most Experienced Airline” (1970s)
Back in the 1970s, Pan Am was the airline everyone wanted to fly.
Their “World’s Most Experienced Airline” ad campaign wasn’t just a slogan—it was a badge of honor.
The message was simple: if you wanted to fly the best, you flew Pan Am.
Why It Was Iconic:
Pan Am sold a dream.
Their ads made people believe flying wasn’t just about getting from one place to another. It was an experience filled with luxury, adventure, and class.
The tagline “World’s Most Experienced Airline” worked because it made travelers feel like they were in safe, capable hands with a brand that ruled the skies.
Why It’s Unforgettable:
Even though Pan Am doesn’t exist anymore, this ad still represents the golden age of flying. Takes you back to a time when boarding a plane felt glamorous, and the journey itself was just as exciting as the destination.
If you’ve ever seen an old Pan Am ad, you’ll know why it’s remembered as the airline that defined an era of travel.
