Throughout the history of aviation, no other aircraft has immediately become an icon of elegance and power, striking a chord with travellers and others alike. Due to its unique shape and technical prowess, it earned the nickname Queen of the Skies.The design and construction of the Boeing 747 is rightly considered one of the greatest, if not the greatest, feats in aeronautical engineering. When it first entered into commercial service, in 1970, the Boeing 747 forever revolutionised the concept of flying itself, ushering in the era of aerial transport for the masses.Even though it was designed in a time when it was thought that the future of aviation would be supersonic, the creativity and foresight of its designer ensured that the Boeing 747 has been able to overcome a series of crises and renew itself time and time again to take on new technological challenges. Now, 50 years later, the icon is becoming a legend.