SkyMall Files for Bankruptcy. Hope You Like Reading Safety Cards.

SkyMall
SkyMall

Say goodbye to all the crap you don't need but love looking at on an airplane.

SkyMall -- America’s purveyor of decidedly useless items, such as the Basho the Sumo Wrestler Table and the NFL Shoe Wine Holder -- is officially filing for bankruptcy.

The in-flight catalog and its parent company Xhibit (not the "Pimp My Ride guy," unfortunately) plan to sell their assets, citing declining interest from customers and increased availability of the Internet on domestic flights. The retailer reportedly earned just $15.8 million in 2014, compared to $33.7 million in 2013. Thanks a lot, Internet. Now where are people supposed to buy the Crispy Corners brownie pan?

“With the increased use of electronic devices on planes, fewer people browsed the SkyMall in-flight catalog," Chief Executive Scott Wiley said in court filings.

While plugged-in domestic fliers no longer need SkyMall’s miscellany (seriously, who besides Ross Gellar has any need or desire for a T-Rex Dinosaur Trophy Frieze?), the company hopes to continue selling terrible Father's Day/birthday presents until it secures a buyer in April. An auction will be held March 24, where hoarders will bid for the struggling retailer.

Until then, don't fret: all that crap is still for sale. Just not in an in-flight catalogue.


Chloe Pantazi is an editorial assistant on Thrillist's travel team. She's never bought anything from SkyMall, but is quite fond of this Night Riderz Lighted Zipline. Follow her on Twitter at @ChloePantazi.