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From Sky to Keepsake: The Qantas Boeing 747-400ER Aviationtag Story
We are excited to introduce the latest addition to our Aviationtag collection: the iconic Qantas Boeing 747-400ER. In this blog post, we will explore the rich history of Qantas, delve into the specifics of the Boeing 747-400ER, and finally, unveil the details of our new Aviationtag edition crafted from this legendary aircraft.
The Story of Qantas: Australia’s Aviation Pioneer
Founded on November 16, 1920, Qantas is the third oldest airline still in operation, following KLM and Avianca. Known initially as Queensland and Northern Territory Aerial Services (Q.A.N.T.A.S.), it was established by pilots Hudson Fysh and Paul McGinness, alongside wealthy cattle ranchers Fergus McMasters, Ainslie Templeton, and Alan Campbell. The airline's first flight took place on January 31, 1921.
In 1929, Q.A.N.T.A.S. bid for the international airmail route between Australia and Singapore, eventually partnering with Imperial Airways to form Qantas Empire Airways. This company soon became the parent of Q.A.N.T.A.S., and between 1946 and 1949, the Australian government nationalized it, purchasing all shares at market prices.
Qantas received its first Boeing 747 on July 30, 1971, and the aircraft type served many of its long-haul routes to Europe, Africa, and the Americas. On March 25, 2018, Qantas introduced the first direct flight between Europe and Australia, connecting Perth and London Heathrow in just 17 hours over 14,500 km.
As of June 2024, Qantas operates a fleet of 125 aircraft, primarily Boeing 737s, with a significant number of Airbus A330s and A380s. The last Boeing 747 flight for Qantas was on July 22, 2020, from Sydney to Los Angeles.
Qantas Boeing 747-400ER Edition View all
Boeing 747-400ER: The Extended Range Marvel
This model included optional additional body fuel tanks in the forward cargo hold, withQantas opting for a single tank configuration. The tankswere manufactured by Marshall Aerospace using metal-to-metal honeycomb bonded technology, featuringa double wall and integrated venting system. The fuel management system optimized fuel transfer during flight, ensuring maximum efficiency.
The first 747-400ER, used as a test flight aircraft, was delivered to Qantas on October 31, 2002. Qantas utilized the 747-400ER to operate full loads on long-haul routes, particularly from Melbourne to Los Angeles. In May 2018, Qantas announced the retirement of its entire 747 fleet by 2020, including the 747-400ERs.
The Aviationtag Edition: A New Chapter for a Flying Legend
Our latest Aviationtag edition pays homage to the illustrious history of the Qantas Boeing 747-400ER. This specific aircraft, registered as VH-OEG and named "Parkes" after the town in New South Wales, served Qantas from 2002 until its retirement in 2020. It was one of only six 747-400ERs built exclusively for Qantas, making this edition particularly special.
Crafted from the fuselage of VH-OEG, each Aviationtag is a unique piece of aviation history. These tags come in three stunning color variants: vibrant red, classic white, and a limited edition red-and-white, reflecting the iconic Qantas livery.
Whether used as a keychain, luggage tag, or a collector's item, these Aviationtags serve as a tangible connection to the storied past of Qantas and its beloved 747-400ER. Secure your piece of upcycled aviation heritage today and stay tuned for more exciting releases from Aviationtag.
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