Electronic displays using multicolor cathode ray tube (CRT) technology were introduced to Air Transport cockpits in 1979 when Boeing and Airbus Industries selected CRTs for display of primary flight data, engine information and systems information in new generation aircraft. The introduction of CRTs to the flight deck has been very successful with display capability and symbology undergoing continuous improvement. The evolution of these display systems is reviewed with a look at the flat panel displays of tomorrow.