I feel badly for the workers, who probably spent their entire careers building the 747. I guess they'll have to learn to code.

much better discussion with pictures, I like this one in particular

I spent a lot of time roaming the assembly lines in Everett (767, 777, 787, and of course 747) when I wasn't in the Boeing engine shop. Amazing to see one of these behemoths come together.

Sad to hear the 747 line has ended. The 787 line is also being shut down (with new airframes being built in Charleston - maybe this has already occurred). It'll be interesting to know what they're going to do with all that floor space.

lease it to the state for a methadone clinic ?

Line will be converted to the 777X.

My first engineering job was at the Everett plant, summer of 1979.
I remember my coworkers talking about one they fitted up for the King of Saudi Arabia a year or so earlier.

What a run.

Hear hear!

The story of the genesis of the 747 is a fascinating one. Developed as a stopgap, the project was led by a “junior” engineer while the company’s best and brightest were assigned to the supersonic transport. Problems with aerodynamics and engines contributed to delays and costs that almost bankrupted Boeing from a time when Boeing was led by engineers. People like Juan Trippe, Bill Allen, and even Charles Lindbergh all feature in its gestation. This marks the end not only of the 747, but an era that in my opinion marks the greatest days of civil aviation. RIP to the Queen of the Skies.

[youtube]http://youtu.be/NwogDVkqUvs[/youtube]

What will we use for AF1 now? I would think that 3 engines would be a minimum requirement.

AF1 replacements are already underway, they are 747-800 and will likely serve the next 25-30 years

lease it to the state for a methadone clinic ?

lease it to the state for a methadone clinic ?

I had more confidence in the 747 than any other airplane I had flown. Size does not relate to difficulty in handling an airplane, as the 747 proved very well; such a nice handling airplane, just big, needing a lot of real estate to maneuver.

Our freighters had the full upper deck, and it served as an "apartment" during extended ground stops; two lavs, galley ovens, first class seating and bunks. Also the preferred means of deadheading.

I remember my first deadhead flight on a 767 going across the Atlantic, thinking geez this thing only has two engines! But the twin airliners have proven themselves and a four engine plane is just not practical anymore. I'm glad I was fortunate enough to fly in the era of 4 engine jet airliners, the DC-8 and the 747.