One of the most familiar names in US aviation is almost back in business.
Eastern Air Lines flew its first jet into Miami and plans to start commercial service – initially as a charter operator – in March 2015.
Eastern will be based in Miami like is famous predecessor which was one of the country’s biggest airlines in the 1980s although its history can be traced back to its founding in 1927.
It went out of business following bankruptcy in 1991.
The current reincarnation has no ties to the old company, having bought the rights to the Eastern name and logo, but CEO Ed Wegel hopes the name will still resonate with air travelers.
"We’ve done extensive surveys and polling on the name," he said.
"It has 80% recognition in Miami, and overall it has very positive name recognition still."
The airline has placed orders with Boeing for 10 new 737-800s and has already held recruitment days for flight crew.
The company has not disclosed routes it plans to fly but will start charter flights before moving to regular scheduled services at a later date.
