(TAN): Australians have the opportunity to say goodbye to the last Qantas Boeing 747 “Queen of the Skies” before it is retired.
The national flag carrier will operate three one-hour “farewell jumbo joy flights” departing from Sydney, Canberra and Brisbane, in response to requests from employees and customers for one final chance to fly on the aircraft.
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Qantas 747 Fleet Captain Owen Weaver said, “The 747 has been a magnificent aircraft and it’s fitting that we celebrate the end of five decades of history-making moments for the national carrier and aviation in Australia.”
The first 747 joined the Qantas fleet in 1971, said Weaver, adding that the three flights will offer the final opportunity to fly on the Qantas 747 before it leaves.
“There is an enormous amount of nostalgia and affection associated with our 747 and for those who miss out on a seat on the flight, they will at least be able to catch a glimpse of the aircraft as it takes to Australian skies for the last time,” Weaver said.
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The flights went on sale at midday on July 8 on Qantas.com and will operate on July 13 (Sydney), July 15 (Brisbane) and July 17 (Canberra). Economy fares cost AUD 400 (USD 280) and a small number of Business Class tickets will be available for AUD 747 with additional extras included.
The final 747-400 in the fleet will depart Sydney at approximately 1400 hours on July 22 as flight QF7474.
