Fleet of Today

Airstream: The Fleet Of Today

By: Lisa Renee Sherman

Throughout the years Airstream has adjusted with the times and has moved into the modern era of recreational travel. With the monumental success of creating a unique niche they have benefited from a very large consumer base. Vintage travel trailers and motorhomes is not for every traveler. There are those that bypass the vintage and focus on the new.

The 2009 Fleet that Airstream rolled out sports travel trailers, motorhomes, and touring coaches. Even though times have changed, Airstream has discovered success from blending the old with the new. As a company it has tapped into what their unique consumers are looking from and try not to deviate from that outline.

For original consumers of the Airstream travel trailer, on paper it wouldn’t feel like generations has passed. The Flying Cloud was first introduced in 1951. It came on either a pipe frame or ladder frame in the standard set length of 21 feet. The wood galley and masonite countertops would have been a recently new addition, along with the modifications of closets. At this time the interior walls were still painted aluminum. It was part of the Airstream Fleet every year until 1964. The only major changes were in 1954, when it was first offered in 22 feet.

Today, The Flying Cloud is offered in up to seven different lengths. These lengths range from19 feet to 28 feet. The once standard floor plan has changed to the opportunity to pick different floor plans depending on the length of selection. It has AC as well as heat, and can sleep anywhere from three to five people; again depending on the selection of length.

Newer to the line up is the Sport travel trailer. It is more compact than that of the other Airstreams. It is offered in the lengths of 17 feet and 22 feet. The 17 foot Sport sleeps two people, and the 22 foot sleeps four. Typically, this trailer is marketed more for the new traveler that be drawn to its compact size for easy maneuvering.

One of the sleek, modern new Airstreams is viewed to be the International. It is offered in two styles; the International CCD Signature Series, and the Ocean Breeze. The International CCD Signature Series was designed by Christopher C. Deam, an award winning architect and designer. This travel trailer is proof that Airstream has successfully stepped into the 21st Century. It is admired for its “cutting edge” ultra modern amenities.

The International CCD Signature Series is offered in lengths anywhere from 16 feet to 28 feet. It can sleep anywhere from 3 to 6 people; depending on the selection of length. There are three main options when it comes to interior style. They are; Cilantro, Paprika, and the Signature Series Wenge Laminate. The look of this new Airstream is sleek, modern and sharp.

The International Ocean Breeze model was made for relaxation. It, just like the Signature Series, comes in lengths from 16 to 28 feet. It can also sleep anywhere from 3 to 6, depending on the length. Where this one steps away from the Signature Series is in the interior. There are many more options for color schemes and come with awnings.

For the consumers that want the style of yesterday, but the comforts of today is The Classic. This new Airstream travel trailer was designed to honor the past style of the vintage trailers that created Airstream what it is today. This is one of the larger travel trailers offered. It starts at lengths of 25 feet and ends at 34! Every length offered sleeps between 4 and 6 individuals.

One of the more unique 2009 Fleet members is the DWR Airstream. This stands for “Drive Within Reach”. Based out of San Francisco, California the retailer for furnishings and accessories; Drive Within Reach, commissioned Christopher C. Deam to create a travel trailer that their unique style of furnishing would look charming in. It is only offered in standard 16 feet, and can sleep up to 3 people. This model does offer the attractive pull out awning.

The last of the travel trailers is by far the least of the lot. The Panamerica is for the adventure enthusiast that wishes to carry along more than just the trailer! It only comes in 34.7 feet, and sleeps between 3 and 4 people. It is designed so that the final eleven feet is a virtual garage. It can store up to two motorcycles, dirt bikes or ATV vehicles, depending on your pleasure that is.

Touring coaches have changed the face of Airstream, and in 2009 one was included in the Airstream Fleet. It is the Interstate. It sleeps only two people, but sports a galley and bathroom. When comparing this touring coach with other competitors it is noticeable Airstream. It has the sleekness that all the modern travel trailers sport, with extreme luxury.

There is such a wide variety of Airstream travel trailers, motorhomes, and touring coaches. Many members of clubs recommend that all newcomers attend local Rallies and view the selections. This gives prospective buyers the opportunity to view the rich history of Airstream, as well as leisurely ask owners questions. Not many companies have stood the test of time. The rich tradition and history of Airstream represents more than a recreational vehicle. It is a picture of America at it’s best!

If you would like to research more information on Airstream trailers you can also check out AirstreamTrailers.com for more Airstream related sites.

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