53 Years Ago Pan Am Took Its First Boeing 747
Pan Am introduced the 747-100 on January 22nd, 1970. The aircraft would become synonymous with the legacy carrier, bringing a new age of flight to the world. For many, the first time on a plane was with the type due to the affordability and opportunity that came with it.
Pan Am initially planned for the 747 to begin flying commercially on January 21st. However, activity was delayed due to technical issues impacting the aircraft that was due to fly. Thus, the next day, another jumbo took the lead. It transported 335 passengers and 20 crewmembers from JFK to London Heathrow to kick off global jumbo operations.
More than 1,560 747s have been built since the program began in the 1960s. The last unit of the series is set to be delivered in October 2022, with the final customer being Atlas Air. In the passenger space, the 747-8 is largely keeping the family’s operations going, with the likes of Lufthansa, Korean Air, Air China, and several government departments flying the model. Air China, Air India, Asiana Airlines, Atlas Air, Lufthansa, Mahan Air, and Rossiya Airlines have also been flying the once-popular 747-400 in recent times.
When it comes to the 747-100, 168 units were produced in total. Of these builds, 167 were delivered to customers. This variant is still in service. Namely, the Iran Air Force holds a cargo modification. The department also maintains the -200C and 200F. Speaking of the military, the 747 has famously provided the role of Air Force One since 1990. This title is the official air traffic control call sign for a US Air Force aircraft carrying the US president.
Overall, the 747, along with other quadjets in the industry, has fallen out of fashion for more efficient twinjets. Nonetheless, the Queen of the Skies is a favorite among the aviation community, giving a sense of nostalgia and pride for many. With over five decades in service, the 747 is truly an icon and will leave a legacy for decades to come.
source: https://simpleflying.com/pan-am-boeing-747-52-years/