10 of the Best Airline Commercials

The best airline commercials go beyond selling flights; they tell stories, evoke emotions, and leave a lasting impression. Learn from these successful campaigns, adapt their strategies, and let TEGNA be your partner in soaring to new heights in the world of airline advertising.

What is Airline Advertising?

Travel is rebounding in a big way, and the data provided in our latest e-book, “Taking Off: Understanding Today’s Leisure Traveler,” confirms it. In fact, 94% of Americans choose to travel in the next 12 months and plan an average of four overnight trips a year. 

What does this mean for your airline’s advertising? There’s an excellent opportunity to reach these travelers and get them booked on your airline. What better way to reach them than through advertising?

Airline advertising is a dynamic and crucial aspect of the aviation industry. It goes beyond merely promoting flights; it’s about creating an experience, connecting with audiences emotionally, and showcasing the unique aspects of each airline.

At TEGNA, we understand the significance of airline advertising, and we’re going to delve into some of the most successful airline commercials that have left a lasting impact on viewers. Use these campaigns as creative inspiration.

Looking for more inspiration and creative tips? Check out:

• Soar to New Heights: Airline Advertising Tactics
• 5 Travel & Tourism Ads to Inspire Your Next Creative Video Campaign
• Travel & Tourism Advertising: What Do Consumers Want to See?
• Understanding Today’s Leisure Traveler: Unpacking Key Findings

10 Successful Airline Commercials

These campaigns effectively marketed the airlines and set a benchmark for creativity and innovation in the industry.

1. Emirates Airlines Uses Contrast to Showcase Its Luxurious Planes

Emirates Airlines stands out by employing the strategy of contrast in its commercials. By featuring renowned personalities like Jennifer Aniston in a luxurious setting, they create a stark contrast that highlights the opulence of their planes. This not only attracts attention but also conveys the message of exclusivity and comfort. This strategy can pique the interest of a wealthy and affluent audience seeking luxury travel options.

2. British Airways Focuses on the Human Connection

British Airways tugs at the heartstrings by focusing on the emotional aspect of travel. In their commercial “A Ticket to Visit Mum,” they beautifully capture the human connection that air travel facilitates. This approach resonates with viewers personally and reinforces British Airways as a brand that values relationships and emotions.

3. Lufthansa Uses Humor to Connect with Audiences

Lufthansa takes a light-hearted approach by infusing humor into their commercials. In the “Facing your Idol” commercial with FC Bayern Munich, they showcase a humorous encounter between a fan and his idol during a flight. This entertains and creates a positive association with the brand, making Lufthansa memorable to viewers.

4. Turkish Airlines Sees Face-Off Between Two GOATS

Turkish Airlines pays homage to legends Leo Messi and Kobe Bryant, bringing them together in an epic commercial that celebrates the spirit of greatness. This collaboration captures attention and aligns Turkish Airlines with the essence of legendary achievements.

5. Virgin Atlantic Sees the World Differently

Virgin Atlantic encourages viewers to see the world differently in a visually stunning commercial. Captivating visuals and a unique perspective set Virgin Atlantic apart, inspiring those seeking a different view of the world.

6. Delta Air Lines: The World is Your Kaleidoscope

Delta Air Lines mesmerizes with its “The World is Your Kaleidoscope” commercial, showcasing the diverse and vibrant experiences of its flights. This visually striking campaign reflects Delta’s commitment to providing a kaleidoscope of opportunities to travelers.

7. British Airways’ “To Fly, To Serve” Campaign

British Airways’ iconic “To Fly, To Serve” campaign embodies the airline’s commitment to service and excellence. This timeless commercial reinforces the airline’s dedication to delivering exceptional flying experiences.

8. Alaska Airlines’ Safety Dance

Alaska Airlines adds a touch of creativity to safety instructions with their “Safety Dance” commercial. By turning routine safety information into an entertaining performance, Alaska Airlines engages passengers while delivering important safety messages.

9. United’s Story of a Better Plane

United Airlines takes viewers on a journey with “This is the story of a better plane,” highlighting innovations and improvements. This campaign showcases advancements in air travel and positions United as a forward-thinking and customer-focused airline.

10. GEICO Insurance Uses Humor with ‘You Too’

GEICO Insurance adds a humorous twist to airport scenarios in their “Airport ‘You Too'” commercial (and the use of humor in ads is on the rise).  While not directly an airline commercial, it adds a lighthearted touch to the overall air travel experience and is a noteworthy inclusion for its entertainment value.

Start Advertising Your Airline with TEGNA

At TEGNA, our ultimate goal is to equip brands with data and insights to inform and develop creative, then amplify those messages with cross-channel campaigns, including linear, streaming, and digital elements. With 64 broadcast stations in 51 markets nationwide, our unique content opportunities will connect your business to the audiences that matter most and deliver proven results. Let’s get in touch.