Los Angeles - TWA Flights

Vintage American travel poster from the 1960s designed by artist Bob Smith to promote Los Angeles, California, for Trans World Airlines (TWA). The artwork features vibrant, warm hues and beautifully captures the California landscape with towering palm trees, majestic mountains, and sparkling blue waters. On the left side of the poster, the historic Old Mission of Santa Barbara is featured. Established in 1786, it stands as a cultural and historical monument for locals and visitors alike. Inside, visitors can explore period-specific artwork, artifacts, and enjoy breathtaking ocean views. The aircraft depicted is a Constellation, a propeller-driven aircraft that was a signature model for TWA during this era.

Originally founded in 1924 as Transcontinental & Western Air, TWA began with flights from New York to Los Angeles, and soon expanded its routes across the United States. After World War II, under the ownership of Howard Hughes from 1939 to 1961, the airline expanded its services internationally, reaching Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. The increase in air travel, supported by a booming economy, fueled both business and leisure tourism, making TWA's billboards an important part of their advertising strategy.

Despite its success, TWA faced financial difficulties beginning in the 1970s, eventually leading to its third bankruptcy and acquisition by American Airlines in 2001. By that time, TWA had grown to operate to 132 destinations worldwide with a fleet of 190 aircraft.

Bob Smith, the artist behind this iconic poster, contributed many similar designs to the airline, although much of his personal history remains unknown. This particular poster is an original lithograph, not a reproduction.