With international travel still facing restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, aviation lovers are turning to creative ways to bring the sky to their homes. Aviation themed gifts have surged in popularity, allowing frequent flyers and avgeeks to enjoy the thrill of air travel—without stepping on a plane. From first-class pajama sets to vintage airline posters, these items offer a touch of nostalgia and luxury for anyone missing the magic of flight.
Photographer Mike Kelley’s stunning time-lapse prints of global airport activity are a standout. His series captures flight paths above major hubs like London Heathrow and LAX, layering hundreds of plane trajectories into beautiful, surreal images. They make a bold and artistic gift for the aviation enthusiast in your life.
For those who miss in-flight fine dining, Qantas and other major airlines offer authentic airline china sets, complete with retro dishes, cups, and trays. These serve as a unique way to recreate a first-class meal experience at home. Combine them with a curated airplane-themed meal or cocktail night for the full effect.
Cocktail lovers will appreciate novelty items like a plane-shaped shaker, airline-inspired ice molds, or aircraft bottle openers. These clever tools add a playful twist to any bar setup and make perfect gifts for those who love both travel and entertaining.
Vintage airline posters are another hit. Beautifully designed, these posters evoke the golden age of aviation and highlight carriers like Pan Am, TWA, and Imperial Airways. They’re great for decorating home offices, living rooms, or even hangars, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the history of commercial air travel.
For a more budget-friendly option, consider airport-themed décor—pillows shaped like runway signs, keychains modeled after boarding passes, or even socks designed with airline liveries. These smaller items still deliver joy without breaking the bank.
Aviation themed gifts not only celebrate the spirit of travel, but they also make thoughtful gestures for pilots, flight attendants, or globe-trotters grounded during the pandemic. Whether it’s for a birthday, holiday, or just because, there’s no shortage of sky-high inspiration for those who still look up when they hear a jet fly overhead.
Photo Credit: Mike Kelly