Who flies 747s today?

The Queen’s Reign Continues (For Now): Who Still Flies the Boeing 747?

The Boeing 747, affectionately known as the “Queen of the Skies,” has cemented its place in aviation history. Its distinctive hump and unparalleled passenger capacity defined air travel for decades. While Boeing ceased production of the iconic jumbo jet in 2022, its reign isn’t entirely over. A small but dedicated group of airlines continue to utilize the 747 for scheduled passenger flights, offering a final opportunity for passengers to experience this legendary aircraft.

While the number is dwindling, a handful of carriers remain committed to the 747’s continued operation, at least for the foreseeable future. These steadfast operators include:

• Air China: The Chinese flag carrier maintains a presence of the 747 in its fleet, utilizing the aircraft on select long-haul routes. Their continued use demonstrates not only a practical need for the aircraft’s capacity on specific routes but also a recognition of the 747’s enduring appeal to passengers.

• Korean Air: A long-time operator of the 747, Korean Air continues to integrate the jumbo jet into their flight schedules. Their continued reliance on the 747 speaks volumes about its reliability and cost-effectiveness on certain high-demand routes.

• Lufthansa: This German flagship carrier, a veteran in the aviation industry, also keeps a few 747s in its active fleet. Their decision to retain these aircraft likely reflects a careful assessment of operational efficiency and passenger demand on particular routes, further emphasizing the aircraft’s enduring practicality.

• Asiana Airlines: Another South Korean airline, Asiana Airlines, continues to fly the 747, demonstrating the continued value this aircraft holds in specific market segments. This showcases the aircraft’s adaptability and continued usefulness despite newer, more fuel-efficient models entering the market.

• Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines): Rounding out this exclusive club, Saudia also utilizes the 747 for passenger flights. Their inclusion highlights the 747’s enduring relevance in regions with specific infrastructural needs or passenger volume demands.

While the exact timeline remains uncertain, current projections suggest that these airlines will likely phase out their 747 fleets by 2024. This means that the opportunity to experience the magic of a 747 flight is limited and becoming increasingly rare. For aviation enthusiasts and anyone seeking a truly memorable travel experience, booking a flight on one of these remaining 747s could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness a legend in action before it fades completely from the commercial skies. The Queen’s reign may be nearing its end, but for now, she still rules the skies.