Braniff international Airways (Defunct 1982): This Texas-based airline was a force to reckon with back in the day. From its Emilio Pucci-designed flight attendant uniforms, to its neatly colour-coordinated fuselage, Braniff knew how to sell itself in the aviation industry. Unfortunately, the airline went bankrupt in May 1982 after piling up a total debt of $733 million. Several subsequent attempts to revive Braniff went in vain. (File Photo | AFP)