British post air mail
A nostalgic topic!
British Post Air Mail, also known as Airmail, was a postal service introduced by the General Post Office (GPO) in the United Kingdom in 1918. It was a revolutionary innovation that allowed mail to be transported by air, significantly reducing delivery times and making international communication faster and more efficient.
Here are some interesting facts about British Post Air Mail:
- First flight: The first airmail flight in the UK took place on September 11, 1918, when a Vickers Vimy biplane flew from London to Paris, carrying a load of mail.
- Initial routes: The first airmail routes connected London with Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam. Later, routes were extended to other European cities, including Berlin, Vienna, and Rome.
- Airmail rates: The initial airmail rates were higher than those for surface mail, but the faster delivery times made it an attractive option for businesses and individuals.
- Special markings: Airmail letters and parcels were marked with a distinctive "Air Mail" stamp or label, which featured a winged globe logo.
- Increased frequency: As air travel became more frequent and reliable, airmail services expanded to multiple flights per day, reducing delivery times to just a few days.
- International cooperation: The UK worked with other countries to establish a global airmail network, with the first international airmail flight taking place in 1929 between London and New York.
- Impact on communication: Airmail revolutionized international communication, enabling faster exchange of news, ideas, and commerce between nations.
- Collectibility: Airmail stamps and covers have become highly collectible, with many enthusiasts seeking rare and unique items.
Today, airmail services continue to play a vital role in global communication, with modern aircraft and advanced logistics systems enabling fast and efficient delivery of mail and packages worldwide.