Korea’s aviation history witnessed a poignant moment as Asiana Airlines, one of the country’s leading carriers, bid adieu to its last Boeing 747-400 passenger aircraft. The iconic “Queen of the Skies” completed its final flight on Monday, leaving behind a legacy of long-haul travel and countless memories.
The Boeing 747, affectionately known as the “Jumbo Jet,” revolutionized air travel when it was introduced in 1970. Its ability to accommodate over 500 passengers on long-distance routes made it a game-changer. Asiana Airlines welcomed this majestic aircraft on June 20, 1999, and over its service life, it accumulated impressive statistics with a staggering 96,986 flight hours.
As the aircraft touched down at Incheon Airport, fire trucks performed a ceremonial “water salute.” Captain Kim Jae-ho, the pilot of the final flight, expressed his sentiments: “It’s with great sadness that I bid farewell to the Boeing 747-400 passenger plane, the first plane that I ever rode. I extend my gratitude to all passengers who joined us on this final journey.”
Interestingly, the last produced Boeing 747 aircraft took off from Paine Field Airport in Washington. Its flight path resembled a crown as it made its way to Atlas Air’s cargo base at Cincinnati Airport in Kentucky. The “Queen of the Skies” had one last majestic flight, leaving an indelible mark on aviation history.
Asiana Airlines joins the ranks of carriers bidding farewell to the Boeing 747. Only Lufthansa and Korean Air continue to operate this legendary aircraft. The skies may evolve, but the memory of the Boeing 747 will forever soar.