As the Boeing 747 ushered in the age of wide-body jets with spacious upper decks, airlines around the world scrambled to turn commercial airliners into flying lounges. In 1971, Air Canada went all-in on disco, transforming the upper deck of its new 747s into a fully functional dance floor, mirrored wall included. For about a year, passengers flying between Toronto and Europe could step into the airline’s mile-high dance club. Sometimes the airline stewardesses would even dance with passengers. Not to be outdone, United Airlines rolled out its own airborne lounge aboard its 747s, branding it the “Friendship Room,” playing off United’s long-running “Fly the Friendly Skies” slogan. Located in the iconic upper deck, this space featured swivel chairs, cocktail tables, and plush seating where passengers could enjoy drinks and quiet conversation. American Airlines added its own twist by installing a piano bar in the rear main cabin, famously launching it with a special performance by Frank Sinatra, Jr. To accommodate the piano bar, American removed about 50 seats from the aircraft, making this lively corner accessible to coach passengers. By the early 1980s, most of these luxury lounges had been removed, grounded by profit margins and shifting priorities.
