Japan Airlines’ retirement of its 747 fleet, once the world’s largest, has prompted the Japanese government to bring forward its plan to replace the two 747-400s it uses as official transports.

China Airlines ceased Boeing 747-400 operations on March 20 following a farewell flight over Japan, retiring the type after 28 years of service. The carrier’s 747s had largely remained on the ground ...

The 747 democratized international travel, made intercontinental trips routine, and inspired generations of aviation ...