Forum of Flight

This issue of “Forum of Flight” is focused on aircraft as an artist’s canvas, whether it be pure art or advertising. Examples can be traced back to the earliest of flights (“VIN FIZ” advertising on Cal Roger’s 1911 transcontinental Wright EX), extending through WWI (Richthofen’s “Flying Circus”), the Golden Age, WWII (rendezvous, recall aircraft and nose art) up to present day. We’ve chosen to focus on some of the more recent uses of aircraft as a canvas – in both the military and civilian world – that represent special commemorations or were done for marketing/promotional purposes. In at least one case, Western Pacific Airlines, even used their aircraft as flying billboards receiving a fee for displaying the promotion. We hope you will enjoy this slightly off-beat use of aircraft.

The FORUM is presented as an opportunity for each member to participate in the Journal by submitting interesting or unusual photographs. Negatives, slides, black-and-white or color photos with good contrast may be used if they have smooth surfaces. Digital submissions are also acceptable, but please provide high resolution images (>3,000 pixels wide). Please include as much information as possible about the image such as: date, place, msn (manufacturer’s serial number), names, etc., plus proper photo credit (it may be from your collection but taken by another photographer).

Send submissions to the Editorial Committee marked“Forum of Flight,” P. O. Box 3023 Huntington Beach, CA 92605-3032. Mark any material to be returned: “Return to (your name and complete address).” Or you may to wish have your material added to the AAHS photo archives.