One of the world’s most iconic commercial aircraft, the Boeing 747 has rolled off the assembly line for the final time. And what a plane it’s been!
Departing plane-maker Boeing’s Everett Factory in Seattle, the last of the 747s will be delivered to cargo and charter airline, Atlas Air in early 2023.
“For more than half a century, tens of thousands of dedicated Boeing employees have designed and built this magnificent airplane that has truly changed the world,” Boeing vice president and general manager, 747 and 767 Programs Kim Smith said.
“We are proud that this plane will continue to fly across the globe for years to come.”
Entering service in 1970, the Boeing planes affectionally became known as ‘jumbo jets’ and transformed global air travel.
When it was introduced, the B747 became the world’s first twin-aisle plane and the 747-8, to this day remains the longest commercial aircraft in service – at 250 feet (76.2 metres).
It also made famous the double-decker passenger plane.
According to Boeing, the 747-8 roughly travels the length of three soccer fields per second.
In total, 1,574 B747s were built, with the final airplane a 747-8 Freighter with a payload of 133 tonnes.
