106 years ago, the Paris-London air route was established
This page is translated from the original post "Il y a 106 ans, la ligne aérienne Paris-Londres voyait le jour" in French.
- 19/09/2025 11:17
On September 19, 1919, the Compagnie des Messageries Aériennes (CMA) laid the foundations of European commercial aviation.
On that day, the Compagnie des Messageries Aériennes (CMA) launched its first regular international route between Paris-Le Bourget and London-Hounslow Heath, marking the beginning of a new era for civil aviation.
Founded in February 1919 by iconic figures such as Louis Blériot, Louis-Charles Breguet, and Louis Renault, the CMA aimed to transform military aircraft from World War I into civil transportation tools. From its inception, it offered postal and freight services, before venturing into passenger transport. The Breguet 14 aircraft, derived from military aviation, thus became the pioneers of the first regular connections.
The CMA Opens the Skies
The opening of the Paris-London route illustrates CMA’s commitment to connecting European capitals. This initiative is set against a backdrop where commercial aviation seeks to establish itself and create reliable networks for both international travelers and mail. The CMA thus helps lay the groundwork for safe and regular air transport, long considered a luxury accessible only to a few privileged individuals.
In 1921, the CMA merged with the Compagnie générale transaérienne (CGT), and then in 1923, with the Compagnie des Grands Express Aériens (CGEA) to form Air Union, a precursor to Air France in 1933. These mergers expanded its network and strengthened its capabilities while consolidating its role as a pioneer in commercial aviation.
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Today, the CMA is celebrated for its vision and audacity. The launch of the Paris-London route remains a significant milestone, symbolizing the beginnings of commercial aviation in Europe and the development of modern, fast, and reliable air transport.
Illustration : Air and Space Museum
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