The 1990s marked a turning point in air transportation history, marked by emerging technology and antiquated methods. Many find that flying in the 1990s was an entirely different experience from the tech-driven, modern flying experience. Here’s a look at 13 airline practices from the ’90s that seem almost unthinkable in today’s travel industry.

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Smoking on Planes

In the ’90s, lighting a cigarette on a flight longer than six hours was commonplace. Imagine being on a plane where smokers were just a curtain away from non-smokers. Each seat came equipped with its little ashtray. But this method became obsolete as we became more conscious of the health problems and the perils of in-flight flames.

Generous Baggage Allowances

Due to strict baggage policies, travel with multiple bags is costly. In the ’90s, you could check multiple bags for free, an unthinkable luxury today. This change helps airlines boost profits by charging for each bag. These days, every added convenience comes at a price, highlighting how airlines have transformed from providing an all-in-one experience to an à la carte pricing model.

More Legroom in Economy

Back in the ’90s, flying economy meant more than just a seat—it meant space. Travelers then enjoyed ample legroom, making longer flights bearable and enjoyable. Today, that luxury is mainly gone, sacrificed for more seats and higher profits. Airlines have prioritized packing in passengers, shrinking legroom to squeeze out every dollar.

Paper Tickets

Paper tickets were once widespread. Misplacing them meant potentially buying a new ticket at steep prices. The shift to e-tickets has revolutionized how we travel, enhancing convenience by leaps and bounds. This digital move reduces paper waste and streamlines the travel process, allowing for last-minute changes and less anxiety over lost tickets.

In-Flight Meals Included

In the ’90s, in-flight meals were part of the journey, no matter the duration of the flight. Today, getting anything free on a flight is a miracle, let alone a meal! Shorter flights likely have no meal service in economy and you have to buy water.

Sky-High Last-Minute Fares

In the 1990s, last-minute fares were steep because you couldn’t check out multiple airline options. Thanks to the Internet, you can check out fares of multiple airlines with one click today. Any destination with multiple airlines flying to it can’t afford to keep steep fares.

Sparse In-Flight Entertainment

Thanks to technology, passengers on flights can choose between movies, music, shows, and other entertainment to keep themselves entertained during a flight. In-flight entertainment systems have improved dramatically, while passengers of the 1990s only had in-flight magazines and a couple of movies to watch.

Less Rigorous Security

Airport security in the 1990s was a breeze. Most carry-ons only got a cursory look and were very rarely put through X-rays. Random screenings were less common. Passengers had a higher chance of walking straight to their flights without any checks, and they could carry any amount of liquids with them on flights.

Frequent Flyer Programs Were Simpler

Today, frequent fliers’ miles depend on the number of miles flown, the destinations you take, the class you travel in, and the amount you pay. In the 1990s, your frequent flier miles were based only on the miles you flew. The 1990s saw a rush of credit cards in the market that tied up with airlines. Using them meant you got more frequent flier points, too!

No Mobile Check-In

In the 1990s, mobile phones were less common. You had to be at the airport on time to check-in. If you weren’t on time, you would miss your flight. There was a lot of paperwork involved, which could lead to unexpected delays. You would have to wait in line to check in and interact with an airline representative.

The Role of Travel Agents

Travel agents were your best friends if you wanted to fly in the 1990s. They were the ones who could get tickets on short notice and the seats you wanted. They were the ones you relied on to catch your connecting flight or book you on another flight if you missed your flight. They were the masters of processing manual reservations.

Lounges Were More Exclusive

In the 1990s, airline lounges weren’t as free for all as they are today. Entry was restricted to premium ticket holders, creating a class divide between first-class and economy passengers right at the airport. The number and size of the lounges were both smaller. There was more focus on quality than quantity. The lounges had premium beverages and gourmet food options.

Fewer Fees and Add-Ons

The base ticket price in the 1990s included more services, including in-flight meals, drinks, seat selection, checked-in baggage, and entertainment options. There were also fewer government fees and regulations.