Imperial Airways - Flying Boat

This impressive 1937 British aviation poster by James Gardner promotes the Short Empire Class flying boats operated by Imperial Airways. The French-language poster features a detailed cutaway illustration of the four-engine aircraft, revealing its passenger cabins, cockpit, sleeping accommodations, galley, and mechanical systems. Set against a dramatic coastal landscape, the illustration combines technical precision with the excitement of early international air travel.The Short Empire flying boats, manufactured by Short Brothers in England, entered service in 1936. Designed for long-distance travel, these luxurious aircraft connected Britain with destinations throughout Africa, India, Asia, and Australia. Imperial Airways, established in 1924, was Britain's principal international airline until its merger into BOAC in 1939.James Gardner (1908–1995) was a prominent British illustrator and designer recognized for his detailed technical artwork and aviation advertising. He later became an influential exhibition and museum designer. His Imperial Airways posters are particularly admired for their combination of engineering accuracy and artistic presentation.An example of this poster is held in the collection of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C.This is an Original Vintage Poster; it is not a reproduction. This poster is conservation mounted, linen backed and in excellent condition. We guarantee the authenticity of all of our posters.