Airmail Envelopes History - 1918 to the Present

Airmail is a service provided when mail is transported through the air rather than by land or sea. This postal service has a rich history in America dating back to the 20's. Lets take a look at how Airmail has helped shape mail delivery and the use of envelopes in our world today.

Airmail Envelopes History

Airmail service in the U.S began on May 15, 1918 with the U.S Army piloting the airplanes (This wouldn't be the only time the U.S Army was involved in the program, but more on that later). It wasn't until  August 12, 1918, that the Post Office Department (POD) took  full control and began using their own pilots. The POD held the sole responsibility of the Airmail program for a number of years until private aviation companies took over in the late 20's.

Scandal eventually tarnished the program in 1933. Postmaster General Walter Brown was given the power to consolidate routes, and the majority of the nations airmail routes were given to only three privately held companies, which forced out any competition. This scandal was dubbed the Airmail fiasco by the press. After President Franklin D. Roosevelt took office he canceled the contracts with the three avionic companies and gave the job back to the Army Air Corps on February 19, 1934.

Over the next five years, Army Air Corp pilots struggled to keep up with the high demand. Long flights and poor weather caused 66 Army Air Corp plane crashes. This forced the government to turn the service  over to private companies once again. In 1971, Federal Express (or FedEx) designed a shipping system exclusively for shipping cargo by air. U.S Airmail ended on October 10, 1975, when all domestic First Class mails were sent at the normal First Class rate.

Airmail Envelopes

Airmail envelopes were typically designed with a colored boarder depending on the country in which the letter came from. For example, envelopes from the US or the UK would have red and blue boarder, since these colors are in the nations' flags. This made it easier during mail separation. One could easily pick out international mail from a nation's internal mail due to the colored edges of the envelopes.

 

Airmail Today

With the growth of eCommerce businesses, international shipping is at an all time high. The USPS has partnered with FedEx with the Global Express Guaranteed® which relies on FedEx Express® transportation to deliver packages worldwide.  Although the transportation service known as Airmail is gone (it's been replaced with services like International Priority Airmail™), the United States Postal Service trademarked the name Air Mail in In June 2006. This classic Airmail style of stationary is now sold for decorative use rather than practical use. You can relive a little piece of postal history by opting to use these decorative red and blue bordered envelopes and paper.

The Fascinating History of Airmail Envelopes

From 1918 to the present day, airmail envelopes have played a crucial role in the history of communication and postal services. These special envelopes were first introduced during World War I to expedite the delivery of mail between soldiers and their families. Since then, airmail envelopes have evolved to become a symbol of efficient and speedy communication, especially in the era of international mail delivery. The history of airmail envelopes is a testament to human innovation and the constant quest for faster and more reliable postal services. Today, airmail envelopes continue to be an essential part of the postal industry, serving as a reliable and efficient means of sending mail across the globe.

The Benefits of Airmail Envelopes

Airmail envelopes offer several benefits, including expedited delivery, especially for international mail. They are designed to be lightweight, reducing postage costs, and are often made from durable materials to protect the contents during transit. Additionally, airmail envelopes are easily recognizable, making them ideal for urgent or time-sensitive correspondence. Their history and association with efficient communication also add a touch of nostalgia and charm to any piece of mail sent in an airmail envelope.

Use Cases for Airmail Envelopes

Airmail envelopes are commonly used for sending letters, documents, and small items internationally. They are particularly useful for businesses that need to communicate with clients or partners overseas, as well as for individuals sending personal correspondence to friends and family in other countries. Airmail envelopes are also popular among collectors and hobbyists who appreciate their historical significance and unique design.

Alternatives to Airmail Envelopes

While airmail envelopes are a popular choice for international mail, there are alternatives available, such as international courier services or electronic communication methods. However, airmail envelopes remain a cost-effective and reliable option for sending lightweight items across borders, especially for those who value the tradition and charm of physical mail.

Tips for Using Airmail Envelopes

When using airmail envelopes, it's important to ensure that the correct postage is applied, as international rates may vary. Additionally, it's advisable to securely seal the envelope to protect the contents during transit. For added security, consider using tracking services or insurance for valuable items. Finally, be mindful of any specific customs regulations or restrictions when sending mail to different countries.

Preserving the Legacy of Airmail Envelopes

As we look back on the history of airmail envelopes, it's important to appreciate their enduring legacy in the world of postal services. Despite advancements in technology, airmail envelopes continue to hold a special place in the hearts of those who value the art of handwritten correspondence and the romance of sending mail across the globe. By preserving the tradition of airmail envelopes, we honor the spirit of innovation and human connection that has defined their history for over a century.