Happy Birthday!

Stuart Forster looks at some of the anniversaries being celebrated by transport operators and suppliers in 2023…

Everyone loves an excuse to celebrate, so let’s raise a glass to some well-known brands reaching notable milestones during 2023.

Now an airline textiles expert, John Horsfall was established in 1863, predating powered flight by more than 40 years. Based in West Yorkshire – still less than five miles from the original mill – the company is now managed by the sixth generation of its founder’s family.

In the 1970s John Horsfall began manufacturing blankets for airlines and has subsequently diversified into airline soft products including pillows, table linens and sleepsuits. In 2021 it acquired the UK brand Orvec, known for Economy Class textiles and nonwoven products.

TydenBrooks was established in 1873, making this the company's 150th anniversary. E.J. Brooks transitioned away from being a lead toy manufacturer to producing security seals which led it to the airline world.

Linstol, meanwhile, turns 30 this year. With 87 global airline clients, the company produces custom products ranging from amenity kits through headsets to pillows and towels.

In the catering sector, Flying Food Group is celebrating 40 years in business this year. “Sue Lin Gin founded Flying Food Group in 1983 with a single airline customer at Chicago’s Midway Airport after eating a stale sweet roll on an airline flight. She knew she could do better, so she did,” explains Nicolas Rondeau, the company’s Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing.

Congratulations to all those marking anniversaries in 2023

a global route network. The Finnish flag carrier is marking its centenary with special liveries depicting Moomin characters, revamped menus and even a music video featuring the all-female choir, the Finnair Singers (pictured). The London North Eastern Railway (LNER) came into being on January 1 1923. The company operates train services in England and Scotland.

In 1938 a Mallard engine designed by LNER’s chief engineer set the steam locomotive world speed record of 126mph – a record which still stands.

Turning 100

Among operators, Finnair is chalking up its 100th year in 2023. Postal routes across the Baltic Sea have evolved into

As part of celebrations, in May a Hitachi-built Azuma train with special livery was unveiled in York. Fittingly, it was named Century.

Congratulations to you all! •

The 2023