Hawaii – Western Airlines | 1970s

Hawaii – Western Airlines, 1970s, Artist Unknown 

This striking vintage travel poster for Western Airlines features an idyllic Hawaiian beach scene framed within the silhouette of a pineapple. Towering palm trees cast long shadows on the golden sand, where beachgoers relax and swim in the turquoise waters. The backdrop of lush green cliffs and a deep blue sky enhances the tropical paradise imagery. The typography is bold and modern, with “Hawaii” in large purple lettering at the top and "Western Airlines" in bright red at the bottom.

During the 1970s, Hawaii was a premier travel destination, attracting tourists with its exotic landscapes, warm climate, and relaxed island lifestyle. Western Airlines, one of the leading carriers at the time, played a major role in promoting travel to the islands, offering direct flights from the mainland United States. The pineapple shape is a clever nod to Hawaii’s agricultural heritage, as the state was once a major producer of the fruit.

Western Airlines was founded in 1925 and became one of the earliest commercial airlines in the U.S. It expanded rapidly during the mid-20th century, becoming known for its service to the West Coast, Mexico, and Hawaii. The airline merged with Delta Air Lines in 1987, but its legacy remains through its distinctive advertising campaigns. Though the artist of this poster is unfortunately unknown, it embodies the bold, eye-catching graphic style common in airline posters of the 1970s.