The legendary airline of a bygone era, Pan American World Airways (Pan Am), is preparing to resume operations after 34 years. Pan American Global Holdings, which owns the rights to the brand, has applied for certification with the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in partnership with aviation investment company Avi8 Air Capital. According to the plans, Pan Am aims to relaunch flights in 2026, based in Miami, operating a fleet of Airbus aircraft.
The new initiative envisions Pan Am not merely as an airline but as a luxury travel ecosystem encompassing aircraft, hotels, and lifestyle experiences. Under the slogan “A New Golden Age,” the company has already reintroduced itself to the industry through Pan Am Suites, Pan Am Lounge (Berlin), Die Josefine, and The Guest House (Vienna) hotels. Additionally, the “Pan Am Hotel by Hilton” is planned to open near Los Angeles in mid-2026.
During the mid-20th century, Pan Am became an icon of global aviation with its international routes and distinctive blue-and-white globe logo. However, rising costs and increasing competition led to the airline ceasing operations in 1991.
