Have you ever flown on a Boeing 747? If so, it was likely an experience that you'll never forget. The Boeing 747, famous for its double-decker design, has carried more than 3.5 billion passengers since its first flight nearly 50 years ago. Sadly, it's looking to be the end of an era for this famous jumbo jet, as both United and Delta airlines have announced plans to discontinue use of these planes by the end of 2017.
The History of the Boeing 747
The Boeing 747 took several years to design and build, with the first test flight taking place in 1969. By 1970, the 747 started carrying its first passengers and it hasn't stopped since.
Boeing President and Bill Allen and Pan Am CEO Juan Trippe (right) celebrate the launch of the Boeing 747 “Jumbo Jet” in 1968. The longtime friends sealed the deal on selling the airplanes to Pan Am with a handshake while on a fishing trip. Source: boeing.mediaroom.com
Despite its eventual popularity, the plane wasn't very successful right off-the-bat, likely because of the economic downturn that took place in the late 60s across the country. Within a few years of the 747's release, however, the economy took a turn for the better and the plane quickly became the most sought-after jet among passenger airlines. Since then, many different variants of the original 1970 design have seen success across the globe.
By December of 2017, the last Boeing 747 will land in Detroit, Michigan and no further passenger flights will be scheduled. However, it has been rumored that the jet may still be used for cargo flights.
Impact on Air Travel
There is no overstating the impact the 747 had on airline travel and transportation as a whole. As the biggest plane of its time, the 747 made air travel more affordable than ever. Whereas in the past, air travel was viewed as a luxury, the higher capacity and reduced fuel consumption of this jumbo jet made it possible for more people to afford a plane ticket. It also broke speed records, making it possible for passengers to get to their destinations more quickly than ever before. The large amount of cargo space afforded by the plane's double-decker design also made it ideal for use in freight flights, both domestically and internationally.
The 747 quickly became the most recognizable plane in the world, with a modified version having been in use for the President's Air Force One since 1990. Simply put, an airline couldn't compete without having 747s on its fleet.
What Does the Future Have in Store?
Today, airlines are retiring their 747s in favor of more environmentally friendly and fuel efficient jets, such as the Boeing 777 and 787. This is especially true as travelers demand greater fuel efficiency and more environmental responsibility. Still, many newer planes bear a resemblance to the 747, so its impact on aviation will not be forgotten any time soon.
Most remaining 747 flights through Delta and United have already sold out (with some selling out within as quickly as a couple of hours), so unless you already have tickets, you likely won't get to experience the thrill of flying in one of these historic jumbo jets. Still, if you get a chance to watch one take off or land, it's truly a sight to behold. And more than likely, the next time you do fly, you'll have the 747 to thank for much of the design and technology of the plane you board to your destination.
