The end of an era

Although the Covid-19 lockdown is beginning to ease, so many businesses are still adversely affected. The aviation industry is no exception. 

 

British Airways were talking about retiring their fleet of Boeing 747's by 2024 pre C-19. However, that has been brought forward, and the familiar sight of a 747 in the skies above Heathrow and Gatwick airport are no more, as Virgin Atlantic have also retired their 747"s. 

 

This jumbo jet series has been in service and production for approximately 50 years. With its four jet engines and huge seating capacity, along with its fearsome reliability, it was a much loved plane, loved by the carriers, passengers and pilots. However, it also came with high running costs and used a lot of fuel. 

 

Airlines are now switching to dual engined, smaller, lighter greener planes. 

 

About 600 BA pilots are trained to fly the 747, so let's hope these highly qualified pilots can be redeployed in the aviation industry 

 

So, another victim of the coronavirus pandemic. A sad end to a loyal aircraft 

 

Stay safe