St. Petersburg-Tampa Airboat Line

The St. Petersburg–Tampa Airboat Line was the world's first scheduled airline, operating between St. Petersburg and Tampa, Florida, in 1914.

• First Scheduled Airline: The St. Petersburg–Tampa Airboat Line is widely recognised as the first airline to offer scheduled passenger and commercial freight service.
• Benoist Flying Boats: The airline used Benoist Type XIV flying boats, a type of biplane designed by Thomas Benoist.
• Short-Lived, but Pivotal: The airline operated for a relatively short time, from January 1 to March 31, 1914, but its impact on aviation history is significant.
• Early Air Cargo: One of the airline's Benoists also became the world's first air cargo flight when a Swift & Co. butcher in Tampa ordered meats to be delivered.
• P.E. Fansler's Idea: The idea for the airline originated with P.E. Fansler, who was interested in flying after experimenting with speed boat racing.
• Contract with the City: The city of St. Petersburg provided a subsidy to the airline, ensuring a schedule of two flights per day, six days a week, for three months.

• First Passenger: The first paying passenger was former St. Petersburg Mayor A.C. Phiel, who paid $400 for the honor of being the first to fly on the airline.
• Decline and Cessation of Operations: The St. Petersburg-Tampa Airboat Line's decline came from finance and limited customer interests causing its decline.
• Significance: The St. Petersburg–Tampa Airboat Line marked the beginning of commercial air travel, demonstrating that planes could connect the people of the world.

January 1, 1914: The first scheduled commercial flight took place, piloted by Tony Jannus, carrying passengers between St. Petersburg and Tampa.

January 1 - March 31, 1914: The airline operated with a daily schedule, offering flights across Tampa Bay.

March 31, 1914: The daily schedule was suspended due to the end of the tourist season.

April - May 1914: The airline continued to offer flights on a reduced schedule and by request.

May 5, 1914: The last flight took place.

Total Flights: The airline made 172 flights, transporting 1,205 passengers.

Total Miles Flown: The airline covered more than 11,000 miles (17,702 kilometres).