Boeing 747 and the Last Airlines Operating It

The Queen of the Skies is the nickname given to Boeing 747 by aviation spectators. It was the first double-decker jumbo jet aircraft ever made, supported with four engines. Typically, Boeing 747s could carry up to 400 passengers for a one-class seat configuration. Theoretically, it will be more than enough to support even the longest flight route. The advancement of technology, though, beat 747’s fame.

Having flown for more than half-decade since 1969, now there are only a few of 747s left as airlines’ fleet. And with the coronavirus pandemic collapsed the air industry, below are the last airlines that still operate Boeing 747s.

1. British Airways. According to The Points Guy, BA is the biggest operator of Boeing 747 with a total of 28 fleet of 747-400 model. Though now there’s only one 747 actively used for flying and the others are grounded, the British flagship carrier still yet to accelerate its retirement plan of 747s in 2024.
2. This Germany-based airline company has both 747-400s and 747-8s models. Its -8 has a true first-class on the nose (second floor) and the -400s only have business class on the nose section. A few of Lufthansa’s 747 even used for exceptional COVID-19 missions to bring back Germans from New Zealand.
3. Air China. Just like Lufthansa, Air China also has both -400 and -8 models. The Points Guy noted that this airline is yet to plan on retiring its 747 series.
4. Korean Air. Korean Air, along with Air China and Lufthansa, is the ‘only’ operator of -8 model in the world. It also has -400 model, though only two left and parked at the moment due to the pandemic.
5. This other Korean-based airline only has two 747s. Unfortunately, both are also parked at Incheon Airport since October 2019—far before the coronavirus happened.
6. Air India. This airline is one of a few longtime operators of 747s. Though now it only has four left, the company is still yet decided when to retire its’ Queen of the Skies.
7. Thai Airways. As of May 5, this Thailand flag carrier only has eight 747-400s. And just like the others, its eight fleet now are grounded due to pandemic.

Want to experience sitting on the Queen of the Skies? Go book one of the aforementioned airlines once the pandemic era ends! (AP)