November 7, 2017 SFO-HNL
Over 47 years after its January 22, 1970 debut on Pan Am from New York to London, the airline industry's
iconic "Queen of the Skies" took her last trip on United Airlines today.
United's first 747 flight was SFO-HNL in July of 1970, so it was fitting to say "Aloha" on the same route.
Some international airlines (British Airways, Lufthansa, etc) will continue passenger service
with the 747, but no American carrier will; newer aircraft like the 777-300 are more cost-effective.
The history-changing 747 dominated the careers of many flight attendants, pilots and passengers with
amazing life stories and fond memories; the final flight sold out within hours.
It was a bittersweet day of celebration.
Scroll down for more info.
Photos by Jon Kramp SFOSW and Kirk Moore (RAFA)
CEO Oscar Munoz addresses the passengers and press at Gate 86
There was cake!
Some passengers on Flight 747 to HNL wore classic '70's uniforms and posed with Jon Kramp
Many passengers also dressed up in 70's attire, stylin'!!
More than 120 passengers were on the upgrade list; all cabins checked in FULL.
Retirees and employees came out to the gate to celebrate
Kirk Moore, Bobbi Barrett and Oscar
UA flight 747 pushes back from the blocks, captured on many devices
Ground staff was out in force to say farewell to the "Friend Ship"
Take-off!! Note all the people on the runway median, recording it for history
Aloha!
Related stories and videos:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zm62JOOmc6k
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QUbabyFKUvQ
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/united-airlines-boeing-747-final-flight/
In the end, Flight 747 got Lei-ed in Honolulu
Photo by Carol Schmus (HNL RAFA)
