If you’re flying through Terminal 3 of San Francisco International (SFO) in the coming months, factor in an extra 15 minutes to check out an amazing United Airlines museum-quality exhibit.
The SFO Museum rotates collections twice per year in the long hallway the security checkpoint and food court in Terminal 3. After a fascinating exhibit on vintage gambling devices, a tremendous collection entitled Flying the Main Line: a history of United Airlines will be on display through March 04, 2018. The exhibit chronicles United’s 91-year history and includes such interesting items as:
- Aircraft models
- Uniforms
- Crockery
- Menus
- Pilot Wings
- Hawaii service
- Amenity Kits
- Bedding/blankets
- An original lavatory sink
- Old route maps
I had breakfast in the American Express Centurion Lounge yesterday and did not leave until it was time for final boarding for my flight down to Burbank. I immediately regretted leaving so late when I found the exhibit. The good news is there will be plenty of chances to see it in the coming months. But if you’re into this sort of thing, give yourself 15-20 minutes. The details/descriptions are interesting as well.
CONCLUSION
Give yourself a few minutes to check this out next time you find yourself at SFO. If you’re any kind of aviation junky, this is not to be missed.
Looks awesome! As a frequent SFO/IAD flyer, will be excited to check this out. As a millennial to see what the “golden era” of flight looked like, although I’d certainly argue we are in the midst of the golden era of flying right now.
Wow. I may be no fan of United, but that’s great. I wish JFK would do something similar with TWA or Pan Am items. Exhibits like these bring aviation history to life.
I like this a lot better than the NFL helmets & jerseys that seemed to be there FOREVER.
Super cool. The SFO exhibits all tend to be good, reflecting a lot of effort
When not part of this display, do you know if there is a permanent collection location elsewhere for these items and how to contact their keeper with potential donations? Such a nice tribute to United!
Unfortunately, there is no permanent display. I think the present location is an ideal venue for a permanent display…
How do I find the curator of the museum?
I would reach out to SFO Airport and ask them to direct your inquiry to the right person.