On October 31, 2023, a chapter closed in aviation history as Air India officially retired its beloved Boeing 747-400, fondly nicknamed the "Queen of the Skies." The final flight, taking off from Mumbai and touching down at Paine Field Airport in the United States, marked a bittersweet moment for the airline and aviation enthusiasts worldwide. As the iconic jumbo jet took to the skies for the last time, a wave of nostalgia washed over many. To commemorate this momentous occasion, the pilots performed a traditional "wing wave" maneuver, dipping the aircraft's wing in a final farewell gesture.
Today, we wave goodbye to the first of our last 'Queen of the Skies', the B747, departing Mumbai.
— Air India (@airindia) April 22, 2024
Thank you for an era of majestic flights. We’ll miss your iconic presence.
Credits - @CSMIA_Official#AirIndia #b747 #QueenOfTheSkies pic.twitter.com/W3M15eo5Nx
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This heartfelt salute resonated with passengers and aviation observers alike, documented and shared across various social media platforms. The Boeing 747 wasn't just an airplane for Air India; it was a symbol of a bygone era. For decades, these magnificent machines served as the backbone of the airline's long-haul fleet, transporting passengers across continents in unparalleled comfort and style. They carried not just travelers, but also dignitaries and celebrities, etching their presence onto the pages of Air India's rich history.
VT-EVA, nicknamed Agra takes off from Mumbai for one last time #aviation https://t.co/G9UZdsNxVU pic.twitter.com/ifvTUCHveU
— Arindam Majumder (@ari_maj) April 22, 2024
The retirement of the 747 was met with widespread celebration and a tinge of sadness. Social media platforms buzzed with tributes, photos, and videos showcasing the aircraft's glorious past. Aviation enthusiasts reminisced about their experiences onboard the "Queen of the Skies," while acknowledging the inevitable shift towards more modern and fuel-efficient airplanes.
Air India's farewell to the Boeing 747-400 marked the end of an era, but the memories and legacy of this legendary aircraft will continue to inspire future generations of aviators and travelers. The "wing wave" over Mumbai wasn't just a goodbye; it was a heartfelt thank you for the countless journeys, the unforgettable experiences, and a place secured in aviation history.