AOA to USA - American Oversea Airlines 1948

This original 1948 travel poster by the renowned design duo Lewitt-Him was created for American Overseas Airlines (AOA) to promote transatlantic flights between Europe and the United States. Featuring the confident slogan “There’s always sunshine above the clouds,” it evokes the optimism and futuristic glamour of postwar commercial aviation. The composition is dominated by a stylised aircraft soaring above dense clouds, its trajectory represented by bold yellow and black graphic arrows leading upwards towards a glowing sun.

Lewitt-Him, the partnership of Jan Le Witt and George Him, were pioneers of modernist graphic design, known for their playful, streamlined, and highly conceptual commercial art during the mid-20th century. Originally from Poland, they became influential figures in Britain and the United States, applying European avant-garde aesthetics to advertising, travel posters, and public information campaigns.

American Overseas Airlines, established in 1945 and later absorbed by Pan Am in 1950, was one of the first carriers to offer direct passenger flights across the Atlantic. This poster captures the thrill of international air travel at a time when crossing the ocean by plane was still an exclusive and aspirational experience. The vivid palette, clean typography, and aerodynamic forms typify Lewitt-Him’s postwar graphic clarity and optimism.

This rare piece remains a sought-after collector’s item, ideal for aviation enthusiasts and design historians alike, representing both the golden age of airline advertising and the innovative spirit of Lewitt-Him’s influential visual language.

Airline - Tourism - United States

There's always sunshine above the clouds

Printed by W. R. Royle and Son in England

Good condition