Rare Old World Map of KLM’s Airway Flight Routes, 1955: 118 Routes, 74 Countries, Pictorial Landmarks

Step into the golden age of aviation with the "KLM Holland Kiralyi Legiforgalmi Tarsasag World Map," a captivating artifact from 1955. Created by KLM, the Royal Dutch Airlines, this map is a testament to the airline's extensive network, showcasing 118 routes spanning 74 countries. As one of the oldest airlines still operating under its original name, KLM's storied history and pioneering spirit are vividly brought to life through this pictorial masterpiece. Each route, meticulously charted, underscores the global reach and ambition of KLM during the mid-20th century, a time when air travel was transforming the world.

The map is adorned with an array of illustrations that offer a window into the cultural and historical richness of the destinations it connects. From the Eiffel Tower in France to the Great Wall of China, and the pyramids of Egypt, each landmark is rendered with artistic flair, celebrating the diverse heritage of the world. The inclusion of people in traditional attire further enriches the map, providing a visual narrative of the global tapestry that KLM's routes weave together. This thematic and pictorial approach not only informs but also delights, making the map a unique blend of art and geography.

Designed with both aesthetic appeal and informative precision, the map employs a clear and engaging cartographic style. The vibrant illustrations and the use of red lines to denote airline routes create a dynamic visual experience. The choice of colors and the detailed depiction of geographical features, such as mountain ranges and bodies of water, enhance the map's readability and charm. The KLM logo, prominently displayed, serves as a reminder of the airline's legacy and its role in connecting the world.

The historical significance of this map extends beyond its visual allure. It captures a pivotal moment in the history of aviation, reflecting the burgeoning era of international air travel in the 1950s. KLM's expansive network, as depicted on the map, highlights the airline's role in bridging continents and cultures, fostering a sense of global interconnectedness. This map is not just a navigational tool but a symbol of the progress and possibilities that air travel brought to the world.

For collectors and enthusiasts, the "KLM Holland Kiralyi Legiforgalmi Tarsasag World Map" offers a rare glimpse into the past. It is a piece of history that speaks to the adventurous spirit of the time and the pioneering efforts of KLM. Whether displayed as a work of art or studied for its historical context, this map is a treasure trove of stories and a testament to the enduring legacy of one of the world's most iconic airlines.

Countries and regions on this map

• Continents:
• North America
• South America
• Europe
• Africa
• Asia
• Australia
• Countries and regions:
• United States
• Canada
• Mexico
• Various Central American and Caribbean nations
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Various South American nations
• United Kingdom
• France
• Germany
• Italy
• Spain
• Various Western and Eastern European countries
• Egypt
• South Africa
• Various African nations
• India
• China
• Japan
• Various Southeast Asian countries
• Australia
• New Zealand
• Various Pacific islands

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Additional illustrations outside the map:
• The KLM logo is prominently displayed in the bottom left corner.
• Bodies of water:
• All major oceans are depicted, including the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.
• Mountain ranges:
• Illustrations of mountain ranges are visible in North America, South America, and Asia.
• Sea, road, and rail routes:
• The map primarily focuses on airline routes, with numerous red lines indicating KLM’s flight paths.
• Other interesting features:
• Illustrations of historical landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower in France, the Great Wall of China, and the pyramids in Egypt.
• Depictions of people in traditional attire from various regions.
• Jet airplanes flying over different parts of the map, emphasizing the theme of air travel.

Historical and design context

• Name of the map: KLM Holland Kiralyi Legiforgalmi Tarsasag World Map
• Date of creation: 1955
• Mapmaker/Publisher: KLM (Koninklijke Luchtvaart Maatschappij)
• Context about the mapmaker: KLM, also known as Royal Dutch Airlines, is the flag carrier airline of the Netherlands. It was founded in 1919, making it one of the oldest airlines still operating under its original name.
• Themes and topics shown on the map:
• Airline routes: The map highlights KLM's extensive network of routes connecting 118 cities across 74 countries.
• Cultural and historical landmarks: Numerous illustrations of landmarks, local attire, and significant cultural icons from various regions.
• Design or style of the map:
• The map is a pictorial and thematic representation, featuring vibrant illustrations and a clear depiction of airline routes.
• The design is both informative and artistic, with a focus on visual appeal and cultural representation.
• Historical significance or context:
• The map reflects the global reach of KLM in the mid-20th century, showcasing the importance of air travel in connecting different parts of the world.
• It provides a snapshot of the airline industry and international travel during the 1950s.

Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.

This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.

This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 100in (250cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

Please note: the labels on this map are hard to read if you order a map that is 16in (40cm) or smaller. The map is still very attractive, but if you would like to read the map easily, please buy a larger size.

The model in the listing images is holding the 24x36in (60x90cm) version of this map.

The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.

If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.

Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.

This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.

This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.

For most orders, delivery time is about 3 working days. Personalised and custom made maps take longer, as I have to do the personalisation and send it to you for approval, which usually takes a day or two.

Please note that for larger framed orders (over 40in/100cm), and some other framed sizes, the delivery time will be closer to 7-10 days.

If you need your order to arrive by a certain date, please contact me before you order so that we can find the best way of making sure you get your order in time.

I print and frame maps in 22 countries around the world. This means your map will be made locally, which cuts down on delivery time and reduces the chance of your map being damaged during delivery. There won't be any extra taxes or duties to pay, and we'll put less CO2 into the air.

All of my maps are well packaged and sent in a rugged tube if unframed, or surrounded by foam if framed.

I try to send out all maps within 1 or 2 days of receiving your order, though some products (like face masks or mugs) can take longer to make.

If you select Express Delivery at checkout your order we will prioritise your order and send it out by 1-day courier (Fedex, DHL, UPS, Parcelforce).

We can sometimes do next-day delivery if you order before 10am. But usually it's best to contact me first before you order.

Read my full delivery and local production guide

My standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame. It is simple and quite modern looking. My standard frame is around 20mm (0.8in) wide.

I use super-clear acrylic (perspex/acrylite) for the frame glass. It's lighter and safer than glass - and it looks better, as the reflectivity is lower.

Six standard frame colours are available for free (black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white and antique gold). Custom framing and mounting/matting is available if you're looking for something else.

Most maps are also available as a framed canvas. The map is printed on matte (not shiny) canvas, stretched over a box frame, and then 'floated' within a simple wood frame. The end result is quite beautiful, and there's no glazing in front of your map.

All frames are provided "ready to hang", with either a string or brackets on the back. Very large frames will have heavy duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

See some examples of my framed maps and framed canvas maps.

Alternatively, I can also supply old maps on canvas, foam board, cotton rag and other materials.

If you want to frame your map yourself, please read my map size guide first.