NORTH AMERICAN AIRLINES
Known as Air Miami until December 1, 1980, Miami-based North American Airlines served southwest Florida, the Keys, and the Bahamas. After serving as an Air Florida Commuter airline for a year, North American began operating all flights under its own name on December 1, 1981. Unable to compete with well-established PBA and Air Florida, North American ceased flights in December 1982.
North American used this indestructible DC-3 N3XW (msn 34373) for charters. After a crash at Miami, it returned to service a few months later. This aircraft previously flew with Shawnee Airlines as N11BC.
North American used this indestructible DC-3 N3XW (msn 34373) for charters. After a crash at Miami, it returned to service a few months later. This aircraft previously flew with Shawnee Airlines as N11BC.
Here's another view of DC-3 N3XW, showing its right-side door.
The Spanish-built CASA 212 Aviocar was North American's primary aircraft type, and its boxy shape gave it a large "wide-body" style interior. N451AM is shown at Marathon, Florida in 1982.
North American operated two classic de Havilland DH-114 Herons. N81962, seen here circa 1982, also flew with Shawnee and Air Miami.
Three Cessna 402s were flown by North American. N789OQ was a 402B.
Interior of North American's first timetable issue effective December 1, 1981 including an attached sheet featuring a brief history and additional information on the airline. Cities served: Ft. Myers, Marathon, Miami, Naples and Tampa.
North American Airlines flight schedule dated July 1, 1982 showing a CASA 212 on the cover and a route map with ambitious expansion plans. Courtesy of Arthur Na.
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North American Airlines timetable from October 1982 and route map showing expanded service in Florida with the addition of Sarasota and Ft. Myers, and diminished service to the Bahamas. Courtesy of Arthur Na.
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