A lesser-known secret in air travel is the existence of aircraft trading cards. While some travel enthusiasts have been collecting these cards for years, others are just now discovering them through viral social media posts. One video in particular, with millions of views and likes, shows a man receiving his first-ever trading card from a Delta pilot, shocking viewers in the comments who were unaware of their existence. The pilot in the video mentioned that there has been an increase in demand for these cards, with many people wanting to collect them, regardless of age.
The Delta trading cards are exclusive to the airline’s pilots and aim to inspire a passion for aviation and create loyalty to the airline. Since the program began over 20 years ago, six different collections have been created, each featuring a different aircraft corresponding to the type of plane the pilot flies. These cards also include fun facts about the aircraft, providing customers with an opportunity to learn more about the planes they are flying on. The card collections are redesigned every five years to give them a new and improved look.
In order to get a Delta collectors card, passengers simply need to ask their pilot, as these cards are free to obtain onboard. However, some aviation enthusiasts also sell these cards on eBay, with one listing offering the “complete set” of 62 cards for $3,000. Delta pilots take pride in sharing their passion for aviation with customers through these collectible trading cards, and they are more than happy to distribute them to those who ask nicely. Other airlines such as American Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and Spirit also have trading cards available, with some airlines like JetBlue no longer offering them.
Other airlines like United have also offered limited-edition trading cards in the past to celebrate milestones, but their pilots do not typically carry these cards on hand. Instead, they may have plastic wings or collectible challenge coins to give out on special occasions. These trading cards have become popular among aviation enthusiasts, with some collectors going to great lengths to obtain complete sets. The demand for these cards has increased in recent years, and pilots are now carrying around stacks of cards to meet customer requests, regardless of age or background. Airlines continue to use these trading cards as a way to engage with customers and share their love for aviation.
