Pan Am is being revived with plans for airport lounges—along with a luxurious journey steeped in history

In June of next year, a Boeing 757 will depart from New York City's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), proudly showcasing the iconic Pan American World Airways logo—complete with its "blue meatball."

No, this isn’t just a nostalgic paint job paying tribute to the legendary American airline, known for its connection to the Golden Age of Aviation.

This flight will, in fact, be operated by Pan Am itself.

You might wonder how this is feasible? In other words... Is Pan Am truly making a comeback?

Well, it kind of is.

Thirty-three years after the airline last transported passengers across the globe—offering legendary service that remains cherished—the brand, one of the most iconic in aviation history, is experiencing a revival of sorts.

As part of this revival, you might soon enjoy a pre-flight drink at a Pan Am airport lounge in the near future.

Reviving Pan Am... in a way

In February, a consortium of investors acquired the Pan Am brand, and they have ambitious plans to reintroduce the name to the aviation scene.

Just to clarify, you won't witness the actual rebirth of Pan Am as an airline.

"We have no intention of launching regularly scheduled flights," stated Craig Carter, who can now proudly hold the title of CEO of Pan American World Airways—once held by the airline's founder, aviation trailblazer Juan Trippe.

Carter stated that it wouldn’t be realistic to match the service levels that Trippe’s Pan Am was renowned for—from its long-haul, luxurious Boeing 314 Clipper flying boats to the legacy upheld by his successors throughout much of the 20th century.

"Given the current climate of deregulation, it’s impossible to revive Pan Am in that same golden era and do justice to its iconic routes," Carter shared with TPG during his first significant interview since taking over the brand.

However, by next summer, Pan Am’s branding—and in many respects, its legacy—will be prominently featured.

Luxury journey planned for 2025

Now operating as a comprehensive travel company, the new Pan Am (officially Pan Am Global Holdings, LLC) is partnering with two luxury travel agencies for a 12-day expedition in 2025. This voyage will pay tribute to the airline's legacy and retrace its historic flight paths.

The Boeing 757 adorned with Pan Am livery is set to depart from JFK on June 27, 2025, heading to Europe.

Managed by tour operator Bartelings, this journey promises to be far from a typical transatlantic flight.

To start, the entire aircraft boasts business-class-style lie-flat seats on a Boeing 757 leased from Icelandair; previously, TPG had a chance to experience the comfort of a similar jet used by another major travel company.

The itinerary is thoughtfully crafted to mirror the routes of Pan Am's 1920s international network of Clipper flying boats (amphibious planes capable of taking off and landing on water, renowned for their unexpectedly comfortable accommodations).

Travelers will follow the flight paths of Pan Am's southern transatlantic route between New York City and Marseilles, France, as well as its northern route between London and New York. Additional noteworthy stops will include Bermuda, Lisbon, and Foynes, Ireland.

The company informs TPG to anticipate many tributes to the legendary airline, emphasizing that the entire experience "has been meticulously crafted to honor the unparalleled legacy of Pan Am with the utmost respect."

"The plane will feature the Pan Am livery," Carter mentioned. "As much as we can replicate it inside ... the pilots will don Pan Am uniforms, as will the flight attendants."

Expect abundant luxury throughout the journey. The adventure kicks off and wraps up with gala events at the Waldorf Astoria New York, which is nearing the completion of an extravagant, years-long renovation.

Participants will also enjoy luxurious accommodations, including stays at the Rosewood Bermuda, Four Seasons Ritz in Lisbon, The Savoy in London, and Dromoland Castle Hotel in Ireland.

Additionally, guests will indulge in a unique, aviation-themed dinner experience at the Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum in Ireland, home to the only replica of a Boeing 314 Clipper long-range flying boat in existence.

However, much like a premium ticket on Pan Am in its heyday, this journey comes with a hefty price tag.

Prices begin at $59,950 for a pair of tickets, or $65,500 for an individual. The company reports that nearly half of the seats on the 50-pod jet have already been sold.

Lounges and additional Pan Am experiences in the works

Looking for an affordable way to immerse yourself in the Pan Am experience? You can now purchase Pan Am merchandise on the company's website.

For those seeking a more hands-on experience, the brand plans to launch a Boeing 747-themed restaurant called the "Pan Am Experience" near Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) this winter, which is sure to delight aviation enthusiasts and nostalgic travelers alike.

"We truly aim to put Pan Am back in the spotlight," Carter stated. "We're doing everything we can to reintroduce the brand to the public consciousness."

Excitingly, the company has confirmed it is negotiating to establish Pan Am airport lounges at three prominent airports across the U.S.

While specifics are limited, the initial concept envisions a pay-per-entry space where travelers can enjoy food and beverages while relaxing before their flights, according to Carter.

"This won't resemble a Delta [Sky Club] lounge," he clarified. "There will be food, drinks, and similar amenities once you enter, but it will generally be open to the public, featuring all the nostalgic elements of Pan Am, including seating and ambiance."

No, we haven't returned to the Golden Age of Aviation, and it certainly won't be the same Pan Am as before.

However, for aviation aficionados who cherish the brand's history, there are several reminders of its legacy on the horizon.

"We believe the iconic blue meatball is still something people enjoy seeing," Carter remarked. "It retains a certain allure even today, appealing to both nostalgic fans and the younger generation."