How Flying First Class Used To Be

These pictures of the pre WWII Handley Page show a luxurious aircraft from a different era - and just look at the spacious seating arrangement!

These aircraft flew much slower than today and only in daylight and fair weather because they predated instrument flying. But for 26 lucky passengers the experience was relaxed and comfortable.

The HP-42 flew at just 100mph and at only a few thousand

feet so there was much to admire on a journey. Overnights were spent in luxurious hotels before heading off for the next stage of the journey. 

A trip from London to Capetown could take a week but there are no doubt many modern travelers who would swap that arrangement for modern "cattle car" expediency.

Thanks to Peter Randell for the link to this story.