Concorde celebrates her last day in service

Concorde will carry passengers for the final time tomorrow afternoon when the supersonic jet lands at London’s Heathrow airport, on what will surely be a sad day for Britain, its people, and a for the world's aviation industry.

The flagship of British Airways for the past 27 years will touch down for the last time in her illustrious career at around 4pm.

As part of the celebrations British Airways has organised for three Concordes to land at Heathrow.

The Concordes will be arriving from New York, Edinburgh and a third will complete a supersonic loop out over the Atlantic Ocean before joining the other two aircraft in the celebrations.

Lord Marshall, chairman of British Airways, will host guests on the final flight from New York. Concorde will take off from John F Kennedy airport at 7.05am (US time), 12.05pm (UK time).

Since joining the British Airways fleet in 1976 Concorde has flown monarchs, prime ministers, Hollywood stars, pop legends and elite business travellers.

Lord Marshall, chairman of British Airways, said: “Concorde is a wonderful aircraft and her last day is one of mixed emotions.

“Everyone has enormous pride in all that she has achieved but there is inevitable sadness that we have to move on and say farewell.

“Concorde’s magic has attracted millions of loyal fans who enjoy her unique blend of speed, grace and beauty.

“The decision to retire Concorde was a tough one, but it is the right thing to do at the right time.

“Concorde will always be part of British Airways and will always hold a special place in the hearts of our staff and customers around the world.”

The 100 VIPs on board the final Concorde from New York to London Heathrow will be treated to the ultimate travel experience during the three and a half hour flight across the Atlantic.

British Airways said it will make an announcement next week regarding where its fleet of seven Concordes will be located after retirement.