The Airtraq laryngoscope (Prodol Meditec S.A., Vizcaya, Spain) is a new disposable optical laryngoscope designed to facilitate intubation in an uncomplicated or difficult airway. Its distinctive shape and its optical system can provide a full view of the glottis without the need to align the oropharyngeal axis. The use of this device as the primary technique to manage the airway of three patients with a previous history of difficult intubation related to difficult laryngoscopy is presented.