Pittsburgh Airways, saving time toward New York
In 1930, Pittsburgh Airways linked Pittsburgh to New York via Philadelphia, promising major time savings and almost luxurious comfort: heated cabin, armchairs, toilets, experienced pilots and a route lined with airfields.
The plan turns the brochure into a fine Pennsylvania crossing: Pittsburgh, Greensburg, Ligonier, Johnstown, Bedford, Altoona, Chambersburg, Gettysburg, York, Lancaster, Philadelphia, Trenton and Newark.
An enthusiastic and highly advertised regional service.
Replace the train with a comfortable and fast flight.
Old single engine aircraft, consistent with the line.
Valleys, towns, emergency fields and timetable.
Understanding the flight
The brochure emphasizes safety and comfort as much as speed. The aircraft must appear as mature civil transport, not a dangerous gamble.
The route benefits from following intermediate fields, because they create the feeling of a carefully selected line.
Before departure
- Choose a slow, enclosed and comfortable aircraft in the 1930s spirit.
- Keep favorable daytime weather, as promised by the brochure.
- Prepare outbound and return flights as two separate days.
- Use intermediate fields as visual references and safety points.
Suggested route
Pittsburgh and Alleghenies
Pittsburgh, Greensburg, Ligonier, Johnstown, Bedford and Altoona create the most hilly section.
KPIT → KJST → KHMZ → KAOO
Eastern Pennsylvania
Chambersburg, Gettysburg, York and Lancaster bring the flight closer to Philadelphia.
KAOO → KTHV → KLNS
Philadelphia and New York
Philadelphia, Trenton and Newark complete the commercial promise toward New York.
KLNS → KPHL → KTTN → KEWR
Experience tips
The flight is short but lively: keep the intermediate overflights, they tell the promised safety.
The return can be flown the next day with reverse light to create a real airline rhythm.
Copyright Michel Lagneau 2013