For over five decades, the Boeing 747, affectionately dubbed the “Queen of the Skies,” has ruled the world of aviation with its unmistakable hump, unmatched size, and legendary long-haul performance. First introduced in 1970, the 747 revolutionized commercial aviation by making global air travel more accessible, comfortable, and affordable. It quickly became the flagship aircraft for major airlines around the world.
Though many carriers have since retired their fleets of 747s in favor of newer, more fuel-efficient twin-engine aircraft like the Boeing 777 or the Airbus A350, a few 747s still fly — and some of them are surprisingly old. So, which commercial airline operates the oldest Boeing 747 still in passenger service today?
Let’s dive into the surprising longevity of this aircraft and explore the airline keeping one of the oldest examples airborne.
A Quick Look Back: The Birth of the Jumbo Jet
The story of the 747 began in the late 1960s, when Pan Am challenged Boeing to build an aircraft twice the size of the Boeing 707. The result was a wide-body giant capable of carrying over 400 passengers — something previously unheard of. The 747 was not just larger; it was also groundbreaking in terms of range, performance, and luxury.
The aircraft debuted in January 1970 with Pan Am, flying from New York to London. Since then, over 1,500 units of various 747 models have been built, including the 747-100, -200, -400, and the latest 747-8.
The Decline of the 747 in Passenger Service
Although still a popular cargo aircraft, most passenger airlines began phasing out their 747s in the 2010s. Rising fuel prices and strict emissions regulations made the four-engine design less economical compared to newer aircraft. Major legacy carriers like British Airways, Qantas, Delta, and United all retired their 747s between 2014 and 2020.
However, a few carriers, especially in developing markets or niche regions, continue to operate the 747 for passenger services — and this includes some very old aircraft.
The Oldest Boeing 747 Still in Passenger Service: Mahan Air
As of 2025, the title of the oldest Boeing 747 still flying commercial passengers belongs to Mahan Air, a private Iranian airline based in Tehran. Mahan Air operates a Boeing 747-400, originally delivered to Japan Airlines (JAL) in 1990, making the aircraft over 34 years old.
After its time with JAL, the aircraft changed hands before ending up with Mahan Air, where it continues to serve primarily regional and long-haul routes from Iran. Due to international sanctions and limitations in accessing newer aircraft and spare parts, Iranian airlines like Mahan Air have had to extend the lifespan of their fleets significantly longer than most international carriers.
Despite its age, Mahan Air’s 747 is maintained locally with a strong emphasis on operational safety, though it does not fly as frequently as younger aircraft due to maintenance cycles and parts availability.
Other Notable Operators of Older 747s
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Lufthansa still operates a fleet of Boeing 747-400s, though none as old as Mahan Air’s.
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Air China and Korean Air also maintain active 747s, but have gradually transitioned to newer 747-8 aircraft.
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Nok Air in Thailand briefly operated retired 747-400s for charter services, though many have since been withdrawn.
While cargo carriers like Atlas Air and Kalitta Air operate older 747s as well, these are not used for commercial passengers and therefore don’t qualify for this title.
The Legacy of the Queen
Even as production of the Boeing 747 ended in 2023, and most airlines move to twin-engine aircraft, the legacy of the 747 lives on. For passengers lucky enough to still board one of the last active 747s, especially an aircraft as seasoned as Mahan Air’s, it’s a nostalgic journey — a flight back to a golden era of aviation
