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The items were purchased from the TWA Museum and include complete and iconic uniform ensembles
such as the Braniff International’s Pucci-designed uniforms from the mid-1960s to the mid-1970s, as
well as the Halston-designed uniforms from the late 1970s. Also included are other airline uniform
pieces from TWA, Eastern Air Lines, Deutsche Lufthansa, and the 1980s relaunch of the Braniff brand,
Braniff Inc. Overall the acquisition represents the ultimate of uniform design from the 1950s through the
1970s.
Alisa Eagleston-Cieslewicz, Acting Director of Museum Affairs said, “SFO Museum is delighted to add
these uniforms to the permanent collection and is grateful to SFAS for its generous donation. Thanks to
the contributions of the Society members and supporters SFAS continues to acquire significant pieces,
which enhance the museum and archive collections and help to preserve aviation history. Once
catalogued, all of these items will be included in the SFO Museum online collection for public viewing
and they will surely be a part of future exhibits!”

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Sara Nelson is a name that resonates powerfully within the aviation industry. With a career marked by tireless advocacy and trailblazing initiatives, she has become a beacon for flight attendants worldwide. Her recent accolade—the San Francisco Aeronautical Society Achievement in Aviation Award—further solidifies her status as a key figure in aviation. This blog post explores Sara’s achievements, the significance of the award, and her vision for the future of the industry.

Overview of the Award

The San Francisco Aeronautical Society Achievement in Aviation Award is a prestigious honor bestowed upon individuals who have made significant contributions in the field of aviation. Known for recognizing pioneering work and dedication, the award acknowledges those who help to shape the future of flight. This year, the spotlight is on Nelson, a fitting recognition of her leadership and impact.

Insight into the Selection Process

The selection process for the award is thorough and reflects the importance of the recipient’s contributions. Sara Nelson’s work as the president of the flight attendants’ union stands out for its focus on safety, equality, and the betterment of working conditions. Her efforts in launching campaigns to recognize flight attendants as aviation first responders has not only elevated the profession but also brought about much-needed societal change.

Sara Nelson’s Perspective

In an exclusive interview, Sara expressed her gratitude for the award, emphasizing that it represents a collective recognition of all aviation first responders. “I’m so proud to be standing here in front of you accepting this recognition on behalf of all of aviation’s first responders,” she stated. Sara also highlighted the importance of understanding the past to guide the future, commending the society’s efforts to honor aviation history.

And when Sara was asked about the importance of honoring the Flight Attendant in aviation history, here’s what she had to say: “We have an important role in aviation in keeping everyone safe and getting that recognition was really important.  We launched a campaign around aviation first responders and that gave rise to our recognition to the public and we started to get more recognized by people,” she said.

Impact on Sara’s Career and the Aviation Industry

Receiving the San Francisco Aeronautical Society Achievement in Aviation Award is a milestone in Sara’s illustrious career. It amplifies her influence and reinforces the crucial role of flight attendants in aviation safety and operations. The recognition also serves as an inspiration to other professionals in the industry, encouraging them to advocate for positive change and push boundaries.

Conclusion and Reflection

Sara Nelson’s award is a testament to her unwavering commitment to the aviation sector. Her work exemplifies the impact that passion and determination can have in advancing both industry standards and social justice. As Sara continues to inspire future generations of aviation professionals, her story reminds us of the importance of acknowledging and celebrating leaders who bring about meaningful change.

For those aspiring to join the ranks of aviation professionals, Sara offers this advice: “The first thing I’d say to anyone who is interested in flying now is that if someone tries to tell you that there’s training or a class you can take that will help you get a job, it’s a scam. The airlines will train you, and if you’re interested, the best thing you can do is make sure you have some service experience, whether it’s waiting tables or working retail.  And speaking a second language is a plus!”

Sara Nelson’s leadership and achievements serve as a guiding light for the industry, reinforcing the vital role of flight attendants and the power of collective action.

By Vanessa Guerra on behalf of the SFAS

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At its heart, this blog aims to explore the significance of the SFAS’s donation to the SFO Museum. We’ll uncover the historical and artistic value of these posters, their creators, and how this gift enriches the Museum’s offerings all while highlighting the fascinating intersection of aviation, art, and history.

The Donation

The San Francisco Aeronautical Society, a stalwart in preserving aviation history, recently purchased several vintage airline posters. These posters, dating back to the 1950s, were created by some of the most celebrated graphic artists of the time. Among them are works by David Klein, Stan Galli, and Edward Kaufmann. Each of these artists brought a unique style to the aviation art scene, capturing the imagination of travelers and art lovers alike.

The donation to SFO Museum are more than just advertising materials; they are windows into an era when air travel was a glamorous and adventurous affair. With vibrant colors and imaginative designs, the posters evoke a sense of nostalgia and wanderlust that resonates with viewers today.

The posters complement the Museum’s existing collection and serve as a bridge between the past and present, connecting historical artifacts with contemporary audiences. Acquiring these posters wasn’t just a stroke of luck. The SFAS had diligently pursued these artworks, recognizing their importance in the broader narrative of commercial aviation. According to Samuel Scott, Curator of Aviation Collections at SFO Museum, these posters perfectly align with their focus on aviation history in California and the Pacific region. It’s a testament to the Society’s dedication to preserving and sharing the rich tapestry of aviation history. 

Historical Significance of the Posters

The 1950s was a transformative decade for commercial aviation. It was a time when air travel was becoming accessible to the masses, and airlines were eager to differentiate themselves in a competitive market. Advertising played a crucial role in this endeavor, with posters serving as powerful tools to capture the imagination of potential travelers.

These vintage posters are more than just beautiful artwork; they are historical documents that offer insights into the cultural and technological shifts of the time. They reflect the optimism and excitement surrounding air travel, showcasing destinations as exotic and reachable. For aviation enthusiasts, they provide a visual narrative of the industry’s evolution.

The posters also highlight the craftsmanship and creativity of the artists who worked tirelessly to convey the allure of air travel. Their work serves as a reminder of the power of visual storytelling in marketing. By preserving these posters, SFO Museum ensures that future generations can appreciate the artistry and innovation that defined this golden age of aviation.

The Artists Behind the Masterpieces

David Klein

David Klein, one of the foremost figures in mid-20th-century poster art, is celebrated for his work with Trans World Airlines (TWA). His posters are characterized by bold colors and dynamic compositions that immediately capture the viewer’s attention. A prime example is his poster promoting travel to San Francisco, featuring a cable car traversing the city’s iconic hills amidst a vibrant backdrop. Klein’s ability to distill the essence of a city into a single image makes his work timeless and universally appealing.

Klein’s contribution to commercial art extends beyond aviation. His style, marked by a fusion of modernism and whimsy, has influenced countless artists. For collectors and history enthusiasts, owning a piece by David Klein is akin to holding a slice of mid-century culture. SFO Museum’s acquisition of Klein’s work ensures that visitors can appreciate the artistry and historical context of his creations.

Stan Galli

Stan Galli’s artistic flair lies in his ability to capture the spirit of an era. Known for his illustrations for United Airlines, Galli’s posters often featured serene landscapes and leisure scenes that invited travelers to explore the world. His work is cherished for its elegance and simplicity, reflecting the allure of air travel during the golden age of aviation.

Galli’s posters are a reminder of a time when flying was a luxurious experience, with airlines investing heavily in marketing to attract the burgeoning post-war traveler market. His artistic vision contributed to the romanticism associated with air travel, fostering a sense of adventure and discovery.

Edward Kaufmann

Edward Kaufmann, a lesser-known but equally talented artist, played a crucial role in shaping the visual language of airline advertising in the 1950s. His work, often characterized by meticulous attention to detail, offered a glimpse into the aspirational world of air travel. Kaufmann’s posters are a testament to the era’s optimism and innovation, capturing the spirit of progress that defined the 1950s.

Kaufmann’s contribution to aviation art is a valuable addition to SFO Museum’s collection. His work not only complements the efforts of Klein and Galli but also enriches the narrative of how aviation art evolved during this dynamic period.

The Role of the San Francisco Aeronautical Society

The San Francisco Aeronautical Society has long been a champion of aviation history. Its mission to preserve and promote the legacy of aviation aligns seamlessly with the goals of SFO Museum. The Society’s dedication to acquiring and sharing significant artifacts underscores its commitment to enriching the public’s understanding of aviation’s impact on society.

This donation is a testament to the Society’s vision and foresight. By securing these vintage posters, the SFAS not only enhances SFO Museum’s collection but also ensures that these artworks are accessible to a wider audience. The Society’s partnership with the Museum exemplifies the power of collaboration in achieving shared goals.

The SFAS’s efforts extend beyond acquisitions. Through educational programs and events, the Society actively engages with the community, fostering a deeper appreciation for aviation history. Its work inspires future generations to explore the skies and understand the legacy of those who came before.

Please consider supporting SFAS’ effort and join a community dedicated to celebrating and preserving the rich tapestry of aviation history. Together, we can ensure that these treasures remain accessible to future generations.  For more information on how to become a member, donate, and participate in events please see www.sfaero.org

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Let’s begin with Concorde. The world’s first passenger plane to fly at supersonic speed, made history after its prototype debut in 1969 and again in 1976 when its first passengers boarded the aircraft. In a short 3.5 hours, Concorde flew from New York to London traveling at 1,350 miles per hour, consuming one ton of fuel per passenger. The plane could fly at twice the speed of sound and up to 60,000 feet in the sky. As a result, the aircraft revolutionized long-distance travel as it cut flying time by 50 percent from the East Coast to Europe.

So what was the trigger for the Concorde project to take off? In October 1947, United States Air Force test pilot Charles “Chuck” Elwood Yeager took to the sky flying the jet-powered Bell X-1, becoming the first human on record to travel faster than the speed of sound. Fast forward to a little over a decade later and that’s when Britain and France teamed up on the Concorde SST project.

Boeing also entered the SST market with their 2707 project: a sleek aircraft with a swing wing configuration. Included in the collection on display at the museum is a very limited model that reveals how the Pan Am SST would look. Unfortunately, lack of funding and customer demand meant Boeing had to cancel 2707 before any prototypes had been completed.

Over the decades, Concorde gained many admirers not just for her speed, but for her elegant purposeful lines. Concorde pushed back the boundaries of our understanding of flight and became a symbol of speed and luxury. “It was very exciting because the Concorde, when it entered service in the mid-1970s, looked to be the future of air travel. It was hoped that with the supersonic transport, you could now cross the Atlantic in half the time, and, hopefully, fly around the world in half the time, and just bring nations closer together and improve commerce,” said Bob Van Der Linden, the curator in the Aeronautics Department at the National Air and Space Museum.

Although the Concorde went out of service in 2003, there are efforts underway to bring back the SST. Boom is working to launch Overture, a new aircraft built for “speed, safety and sustainability.”  and JAXA is performing research and development of a silent supersonic aircraft. So for those aviation enthusiasts who missed out on flying on the Concorde, there is still hope to travel at the speed of sound within the next 5 to 10 years.

Become a member and sponsor special exhibitions

This fascinating exhibition currently on display at SFO’s Museum presents the legacy of the first-generation SSTs through aircraft models, airline flight attendant uniforms, meal service sets, photographs, posters, brochures, advertisements, and video excerpts from the 1976 British Airways promotional motion picture. Be sure to stop by and experience it for yourself now through Nov 12, 2023.

We want to thank all of our members for their contributions over the years as the San Francisco Aeronautical Society can only continue to acquire fascinating aviation history artifacts such as the Pan Am SST model through your generous donations. Click here to become a member or to make a donation.

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John Martin reflects “I had the honor and good fortune to work for Lou for 14 years at SFO. He was an inspirational leader, always thinking outside the box and ten steps ahead of others in the industry. And, as a leader, he always held fast to his values.  Lou created the vision for SFO’s future before he left for Toronto in 1995. He imagined a world class International Terminal built above our main Airport roadway, which seemed almost impossible to imagine at the time.  He implemented a first of its kind inline baggage screening system in 1995–years ahead of the new federal requirements that would be put in place in 2002.  And, he imagined an Aviation Museum in the International Terminal, designed as virtual replica of SFO 1930’s terminal.  I am forever grateful to Lou, for his mentorship, for what he did for SFO, and his creation of the Aviation Museum and Library.  I’m proud to continue on the Board of the Aeronautical Society which continues to support Lou’s vision.”

Angela Gittens recalls “Lou was my mentor, I would never have considered becoming a CEO were it not for him, criticizing me, encouraging me and teaching me, with his characteristic ability to tell memorable stories that made the point. His integrity was total, and he was strategic and tactical enough to win the day. He never missed the opportunity to teach and lead so that to work for him was an exercise in executive development. And he made it fun. You always knew where he was in the airport because you could hear his laughter and that of those around him reveling in his sense of humor. He was a visionary, always seeing where the industry could go and making sure that the airport was prepared to stay apace of change. He managed to keep the same executive team together for ten years and every one of us cherished the experience.”

Catherine Mayer shares “Lou’s personality not only filled the room, but his vision and values were what made him the successful leader that he was. He drove aviation forward and balanced the interests of all stakeholders, something that was never easy to do. But what set him apart from other great leaders was his amazing ability to bring together people from all corners of the world to work in harmony and become ever-lasting friends.   Lou was always available to us as our mentor throughout the decades, and we will forever remember his joy and laughter as he recounted the endless stories of aviation history, politics, life, friends, foes and family.   It is comforting to know that he continues to guide us and share wisdom through the SFO Museum Louis A. Turpen Aviation Museum and Library.”

Dennis Bouey adds “Lou was a very special person who possessed remarkable integrity and the courage with which to act. Qualities, always in short supply, but particularly so these days. Now when we could use him most, he’s gone. We know we’ll miss him but there are those who didn’t know Lou whose lives will be diminished because he’ll no longer be there to do the right thing. That’s the thing…..no matter what, Lou could always be depended upon to do what was proper; no matter the consequences.   And, for those of us who worked for Lou, his support can only be described as relentless.”

Eric Starks, SFAS Board President remembers “ I never worked for Lou but for some reason, he took to me, seeing something that I didn’t even recognize in myself. Through his stories of the military, San Francisco politics, and the deregulation years at the airport, I learned so much. Lou had extensive experience over his lifetime and was always willing to share his knowledge.  He had strong values and opinions, and could be very direct; often catching me off guard!  But, his charm, quick wit, bright smile, and delivery made everybody love and respect him.  He was a mentor to me.”

And our fellow Board member, Lou’s son Ken Turpen, lovingly reminds all that “Lou Turpen was an incredible and unbelievably intelligent man and those who worked with him, have only had the highest praises. More importantly to me however, was what a fantastic father, husband, and human being he was. I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect role model. I can’t tell you how much I will miss him.

The SFAS Board extends its sincere condolences to Lou’s family and friends around the world.

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The award is named after the first commissioner of aviation for the City of Chicago from 1959 to 1975.  Shortly after his death in 1975, the award was conceived to honor his memory and is presented to an individual that has made a significant and outstanding, positive impact on airports or aviation.  Like Mr. Downes, Angela Gittens demonstrated outstanding leadership (often through adversity) and always fostered a cooperation and collaboration among all stakeholders.  She has been instrumental at leading Airport Council International (ACI) World 2008-2020, as well as the CEO of Hartsfield Atlanta International Airport dates 1993-1998 and the Miami Dade Airport dates 2001-2004 And Deputy Director at San Francisco International Airport dates 1983-1993  Angela also served on numerous aviation industry boards and committees including the FAA Management Advisory Committee, the FAA Research, Engineering and Development Committee, the National Civil Aviation Review Commission (“the Mineta Commission”), the Executive Committee of the Transportation Research Board, the Airport Cooperative Research Program Oversight Committee and the Board of Directors of JetBlue Airways. And she is a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society.

Angela is well known for her pro-active drive, striving for continuous improvement of the aviation industry.  Most recently she worked tirelessly to ensure that the world’s airports had the financial and regulatory support to not only survive this pandemic but emerge even stronger and thrive in a sustainable way.

Angela Gittens with ICAO Director General Fang Liu

When asked about the award, Ms. Gittens replied: “this is a tremendous honor and I am overwhelmed to be in the company of such stalwarts as my mentor, Lou Turpen, who gave me the support and encouragement I needed to excel. My aviation career started at SFO and what I learned there stayed with me for the remainder of my career. SFO has continued to set the pace in the industry for quality and innovation and I am so proud to be an alumna.”  Even today, when the spotlight is shining on Angela, she finds a way to remember, acknowledge and share the award with others, confirmation of a true, accomplished leader.

Congratulations Angela!

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