Brazil Rio Braniff International Airways

This vibrant and humorous mid-century travel poster was created for Braniff International Airways, promoting Rio de Janeiro as a lively and unforgettable destination. Against a bold yellow background, a whimsically illustrated Sugarloaf Mountain cable car swings across the scene, packed with cheerful tourists—photographers, romantics, daydreamers, and adventurers—each drawn in an exaggerated and playful style. Above the oversized turquoise RIO lettering, a sleek Braniff jet crosses the sky, symbolizing the excitement of jet-age travel.

Beneath the cable car, simplified green mountain silhouettes evoke Rio’s dramatic coastline, while a daring passenger reaches out to pluck a red flower from the mountainside—adding a touch of humor that typifies the era’s graphic charm.

Braniff was one of the most innovative and design-forward airlines of the 1950s–70s. Known for its bold branding, colorful aircraft liveries, and collaborations with major artists and designers—including Alexander Girard, Mary Wells, and Emilio Pucci—Braniff helped define the look of modern airline advertising. Posters from this period are especially collectible for their creativity and visual punch.

A delightful example of 1960s airline poster art, this piece captures the optimism and flair of Braniff's golden age. Mounted on linen and in excellent condition.