Summary

  • Lufthansa currently operates the largest fleet of Boeing 747s and has the most substantial route schedule for summer 2024.
  • Air China and Korean Air also maintain a robust schedule with their 747s, focusing on key transpacific routes.
  • The 747’s economic viability for high-demand routes, passenger comfort, and long-haul capabilities make it an enduring aviation icon.

The Boeing 747, affectionately known as the “Queen of the Skies,” has been a symbol of commercial aviation since its first flight in 1969. Despite the rise of more fuel-efficient twin-engine aircraft, the iconic jumbo jet continues to be a workhorse for multiple airlines. This summer, we’re exploring which carriers are still operating passenger flights with the Boeing 747, taking a closer look at fleet composition and route networks along the way. Data for this analysis is sourced from Cirium, an aviation analytics company.

The airlines still flying the 747

Lufthansa (LH)

Lufthansa is the largest operator of the Boeing 747 this summer, with a significant presence in both seat capacity and available seat miles (ASMs). According to Cirium, Lufthansa operates an average of over 1,086 flights monthly, with its remaining 747 fleet during the summer.

Lufthansa 747-8 Landing at Miami (New Livery)

Photo: ajuangon | Shutterstock

Fleet Composition:

  • Lufthansa operates two variants of the Boeing 747: the 747-400 and the relatively newer 747-8i.
  • The 747-400s are primarily used for routes with moderate demand, while the 747-8is, due to their larger size and improved efficiency, serve high-capacity routes.

According to Boeing, the 747-8 Intercontinental and 747-8 Freighter incorporate the GEnx engine – one of the world’s cleanest operating, quietest, and most fuel-efficient turbofan engines. It is based on the 787 Dreamliner engine, but optimized for the 747-8.

Key Routes:

  • Frankfurt (FRA) to New York (JFK): A flagship route that highlights the 747’s role in connecting major international hubs for the airline.
  • Frankfurt (FRA) to Los Angeles (LAX): Another important long-haul route showcasing the aircraft’s capability to handle high passenger volumes efficiently.
  • Munich (MUC) to Hong Kong (HKG): A long-haul route that leverages both the 747’s range and capacity.

Air China (CA)

Air China also maintains a robust schedule with their remaining 747s, operating 336 flights in June, slightly reducing to 326 in July, and cutting back to 316 in August.

A Boeing 747-400 Air China passenger plane is taking off from the runway at malta international airport

Photo: David Hili | Shutterstock

Fleet Composition

  • Air China primarily operates the 747-400 variant.
  • The fleet is used for passenger and cargo operations, with some aircraft configured in a combi layout to handle mixed loads.

Key Routes

  • Taipei (TPE) to Los Angeles (LAX): One of the critical transpacific routes that benefits directly from the 747’s capacity and range.
  • Taipei (TPE) to Tokoyo (NRT): A shorter route where the 747’s capacity is maximized to meet demand in a high-traffic corridor.

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Korean Air (KE)

Korean Air is another significant operator, with its 747 fleet averaging 240 flights in June, increasing to 272 in July before tailing off to 260 in August.

Korean Air Boeing 747-8

Photo: Suparat Chairatprasert | Shutterstock

Fleet Composition:

  • Korean Air operates both the 747-400 and the newer 747-8i.
  • The 747-8i is favored for its enhanced fuel efficiency and larger capacity, aligning with Korean Air’s premium service strategy.

Key Routes:

  • Seoul (ICN) to New York (JFK): A flagship route for Korean Air, demonstrating the 747’s long-range capabilities.
  • Seoul (ICN) to London (LHR): Another key route that benefits from the aircraft’s large passenger and cargo capacity.

Saudia (SV)

Saudia’s operation of the 747 is more specialized, with 38 flights in June, 35 in July, and a drop to 30 in August. These flights are often linked to specific seasonal demands.

Saudia Airlines SVA5012 JED-SUB Boeing 747

Photo: Dito Ardiyanto | Shutterstock

Fleet Composition:

  • Saudia leases two 747-400s from Air Atlanta Europe, mainly for high-demand periods such as the annual pilgrimage season.

Since production began in 1967, and the first 747-100 completed its first test flight in 1969, more than 100 customers have purchased 1,574 aircraft, logging more than 118 million flight hours and nearly 23 million flight cycles, according to Boeing.

Key Routes:

  • Medina (MED) to Batam (BTH): Primarily used during Hajj seasons, transporting pilgrims efficiently and meeting the high demand.
  • Jeddah (JED) to Kuala Lumpur (KUL): A high-capacity route leveraging the 747’s capabilities to meet seasonal travel peaks.

Role of the Boeing 747 in modern aviation

Economic viability and fleet utilization

Despite its age, the Boeing 747 remains economically viable for certain routes and service periods. Airlines like Lufthansa and Korean Air leverage their aircraft for routes requiring high passenger and cargo capacities, balancing operational costs with revenue generation.

Related

History: 5 Unlikely Boeing 747 Operators From Over The Years

With over 1,500 deliveries, there have been some unlikely Boeing 747 operators throughout the type’s history.

Passenger experience

The 747 is renowned for its spaciousness and onboard amenities, including its famous upper deck. Many airlines we’ve mentioned have refurbished their cabins to include modern entertainment systems, premium seating options, and enhanced comfort, ensuring a superior passenger experience even by today’s standards.

Future of the Boeing 747

Gradual phase-out

While the 747 continues to operate, its phase-out is inevitable as airlines move towards more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly models like the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350. However, its legacy and impact on aviation history remain unparalleled.

China Airlines Boeing 747 arrive in Hong Kong International Airport

Photo: byeolsan | Shutterstock

Nostalgia and legacy flights

Even so, some airlines plan to maintain a limited number of 747s for special flights and nostalgic journeys, celebrating the aircraft’s storied history and its contribution to global connectivity.

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What’s likely to be the enduring legacy of the 747?

The Boeing 747 continues to serve millions of passengers globally, even as the aviation industry evolves. This summer, airlines like Lufthansa, China Airlines, Korean Air, and Saudia illustrate the aircraft’s ongoing relevance. As we look to the future, the 747’s iconic status is all but assured.

Stay updated on the latest in aviation with our detailed analyses and reports here. Do you have an amazing 747 experience to share? Comment below or join the conversation on our social media channels to celebrate “Queen of the Skies Summer” with us!

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