Simviation Forums

Makes for an interesting read...

http://edition.cnn.com/2016/02/01/aviat ... index.html

An absolute iconic aircraft if ever there was one. I remember watching training approaches and go arounds when I was a kid in 1971 at my local airport at the time. I was in awe at the site and majesty of this fantastic and huge jet. I also had the real privilege to ride upfront in one as I knew a member of the aircrew - in about 1996 - back before 911. It struck me how relatively small it was in the flight deck compared to the size of the aircraft.
Life moves on. No doubt they'll be around for some time yet though - gracing our skies.

I agree... a true icon of aviation

The beginning of the end of the line for all 4-jet heavies perhaps? More expensive to operate and superceded by very capable twins with robust ETOPS regulations.

Pete - was that Shannon? There's some nice pictures of BOAC VC-10s doing line training there.

I was a pilot for Eastern Air Lines at the time and flew a number of trips into Seattle in B-727's. Back in the day, domestic layovers were still long enough to allow for some sightseeing and we toured the new facility a few times while it was still under construction. Absolutely jaw-dropping at the time; now, of course, sorta ho-hum. I never flew the 747 but will miss it nevertheless. As so well said above, a true icon in the development of commercial aviation.

In 1991 I was returning from Germany to Los Angeles aboard a Lufthansa 747-200. It was mid flight when I saw a member of the aircrew walking the aisles stretching his legs. As he got to my row I saw the four stripes on his epaulets. I stopped him and explained that I had just gotten my multi-engine rating and would love a cockpit tour. He briefly glanced at my seat number and said he would see what he could do. I thought that that would be the end of that. Busy guy ya know. About 15 min. later a flight attendant came to me and said "are you ready." I said for what? A cockpit tour! DOH! Saywhat! Ok so here we go up the aisles through first class. Then we climbed up the spiral staircase to the upper deck, turned left and BAM! there is the cockpit door open and waiting for me to enter. I walked forward into button, knob, switch, and gauge heaven. As I looked past all of the instruments above the glareshield I was in complete awe of the outside view. Flight level 330, mach .82, literally over the North Pole! I was able to hang out in the cockpit for a good 15-20 min. It is one of my life's greatest memories that I will cherish forever. That is my 747 story.... Prost!

Gunslinger619 wrote: I was able to hang out in the cockpit for a good 15-20 min. It is one of my life's greatest memories that I will cherish forever. That is my 747 story.... Prost!

Day that are long gone by for the average pax. I am fortunate that due to work I have had the jump seat in many different aircraft...And each time I treat it as the last time.........as you never know...

Matt