America West Airlines

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America West Airlines Trading Cards: Celebrating Special Liveries and Partnerships (1997 Collection)

A Collector’s Guide to the 1997 America West Airlines Trading Card Series

1. Phoenix Suns Livery Boeing 757-200 (N907AW)

• Release Date: May 16, 1994
• Card Highlights: This card features the first special scheme aircraft, a vibrant tribute to the Phoenix Suns. It marks the beginning of America West’s journey into unique aircraft liveries.

2. Nevada Boeing 757-200 (N915AW)

• Release Date: December 15, 1994
• Card Highlights: Showcasing the Nevada-themed aircraft, this card captures the essence of the state’s spirit and the airline’s regional pride.

3. Arizona Boeing 757-200 (N916AW)

• Release Date: April 20, 1994
• Card Highlights: The Arizona card celebrates the state’s heritage with a beautifully themed aircraft, emphasizing America West’s connection to its home base.

4. Ohio Boeing 757-200 (N905AW)

• Release Date: October 19, 1994
• Card Highlights: This card features the Ohio-themed aircraft, a nod to the diverse states served by America West.

5. Arizona Diamondbacks Boeing 757-200 (N904AW)

• Release Date: May 17, 1996
• Card Highlights: Symbolizing the marketing alliance with the Arizona Diamondbacks, this card depicts the themed plane and underscores the airline’s involvement in sports marketing.

6. “Teamwork” Boeing 757-200 (N902AW)

• Release Date: August 29, 1994
• Card Highlights: Designed by Ann Rogan, this card represents the “Teamwork” livery, celebrating the collaborative spirit within the airline.

7. New Corporate Identity Airbus A320-200

• Release Date: January 18, 1996
• Card Highlights: A significant card that marks the airline’s emergence from bankruptcy and showcases its new corporate identity. A symbol of resilience and a new chapter in America West’s history.

8. Second Phoenix Suns Plane Boeing 737

• Release Date: October 17, 1996
• Card Highlights: The collection culminates with this card, featuring the second Phoenix Suns-themed aircraft, a Boeing 737 with luxurious leather first-class seats. It represents the continued partnership between America West and the Suns.

A Walk Through Aviation History: This collection of trading cards from 1997 serves as a unique window into America West Airlines’ history during a transformative period. Each card is not just a piece of memorabilia but a storytelling medium that reflects the airline’s innovative spirit, regional pride, and community engagement. For enthusiasts and collectors alike, these cards offer a nostalgic journey through a vibrant era of America West Airlines.