What To Know
- Air China first introduced the Boeing 747 into its fleet in 1980, becoming one of the first airlines in China to operate the wide-body aircraft.
- While the 747 has been a workhorse for Air China for many years, the airline is gradually phasing out the aircraft from its fleet.
- While the airline is gradually phasing out the 747 in favor of newer aircraft, the iconic “Queen of the Skies” will continue to fly with Air China for several more years.
For decades, Air China‘s Boeing 747 fleet has been a cornerstone of the airline’s international operations. However, with the advent of newer and more fuel-efficient aircraft, the question arises: does Air China still fly the iconic “Queen of the Skies”?
History of Air China’s 747 Fleet
Air China first introduced the Boeing 747 into its fleet in 1980, becoming one of the first airlines in China to operate the wide-body aircraft. Over the years, the airline has operated various variants of the 747, including the 747-200, 747-400, and 747-8.
The 747-8: Air China’s Flagship Aircraft
In 2014, Air China took delivery of its first Boeing 747-8, the most advanced and fuel-efficient variant of the 747 family. The aircraft features a redesigned wing, improved engines, and a spacious and luxurious cabin.
Current Status of Air China’s 747 Fleet
As of 2023, Air China operates a fleet of 10 Boeing 747-8 aircraft. These aircraft are primarily used on long-haul international routes, connecting Beijing and Shanghai to major cities around the world.
Future of the 747 at Air China
While the 747 has been a workhorse for Air China for many years, the airline is gradually phasing out the aircraft from its fleet. The 747-8s are expected to remain in service for several more years, but they will eventually be replaced by newer and more efficient aircraft.
Advantages of the 747
Despite its age, the Boeing 747 remains a popular aircraft for several reasons:
- Capacity: With its massive size, the 747 can accommodate a large number of passengers and cargo.
- Range: The 747 has an impressive range, allowing it to fly non-stop on long-haul routes.
- Reliability: The 747 has a proven track record of safety and reliability, making it a trusted choice for airlines.
Disadvantages of the 747
However, the 747 also has some disadvantages:
- Fuel efficiency: Compared to newer aircraft, the 747 is less fuel-efficient, which can increase operating costs.
- Maintenance: The 747 is a complex aircraft to maintain, which can require significant resources.
- Airport infrastructure: The 747 requires specialized airport infrastructure, such as long runways and wide gates.
Summary
Air China‘s Boeing 747 fleet has played a vital role in the airline’s growth and success. While the airline is gradually phasing out the 747 in favor of newer aircraft, the iconic “Queen of the Skies” will continue to fly with Air China for several more years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Air China still fly the Boeing 747?
A: Yes, Air China still operates a fleet of 10 Boeing 747-8 aircraft.
Q: What routes does Air China fly the 747 on?
A: Air China primarily uses the 747 on long-haul international routes from Beijing and Shanghai to major cities around the world.
Q: Why is Air China phasing out the 747?
A: Air China is phasing out the 747 due to its lower fuel efficiency and higher maintenance costs compared to newer aircraft.
Q: What aircraft will replace the 747 in Air China‘s fleet?
A: Air China is replacing the 747 with more fuel-efficient aircraft such as the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350.
Q: Can I still book a flight on Air China‘s 747?
A: Yes, you can still book flights on Air China‘s 747-8 aircraft on select international routes.
