Concorde Supersonic Jet: Icon of Aviation
For nearly three decades, the Aérospatiale/BAC Concorde was an iconic figure in aviation. Known for its slender delta wing, droop nose, and distinctive roar, the Concorde made a mark wherever it flew. Although it has been retired for over 20 years, aviation enthusiasts fondly remember the airports where this supersonic marvel could frequently be seen and heard.
Airports Known for Concorde Sightings
- London Heathrow (LHR): As the home base for British Airways‘ Concorde, Heathrow was closely linked to this aircraft. Daily flights to New York JFK, Washington Dulles, and Barbados were favorites among spotters, particularly at Myrtle Avenue or on the terraces at the Queen’s Building when accessible.
- Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG): Air France stationed its Concorde fleet at CDG, managing transatlantic routes to New York, Washington, and on occasion, Mexico City and Rio de Janeiro. Spotting the Concorde here offered a unique livery and sometimes included special charter operations.
- New York JFK: As a renowned Concorde destination, Runway 31L/13R at JFK hosted many supersonic arrivals and departures. US spotters often included JFK in their plans, with locations such as the Mounds or Howard Beach providing prime photo opportunities.
- Washington Dulles (IAD): Important for both British Airways and Air France, Dulles was also used for demonstration flights to potential US customers. Spotters enjoyed the sight of Concorde juxtaposed with wide-bodied aircraft from the 1980s and 90s.
- Barbados (BGI): During winter, British Airways flew Concorde charters to Barbados, adding a touch of exotic location to the experiences of those spotting this supersonic marvel.
Early Collaborations and Additional Appearances
- Singapore & Bahrain: In its early years, a joint Concorde service was operated between London and Singapore via Bahrain by British Airways and Singapore Airlines. This service gave aviation enthusiasts in Asia a rare chance to see Concorde, which displayed dual BA/SIA liveries, considered one of the most celebrated special schemes in aviation history.
Occasional Visits
Concorde also made appearances at various airports, such as Manchester, Toronto, Dallas, Dakar, Miami, and Seattle, often on charters and promotional tours, creating significant excitement among local aviation enthusiasts.
Concorde’s Lasting Legacy
Although Concorde’s final flight was in 2003, it remains a cherished aircraft among aviation fans. Its unparalleled speed, unique sound, and elegant design made spotting it an unforgettable experience.
For those interested in its history, the book “Concorde Timelines” details the aircraft’s development, operational life, and retirement through a collection of rare archive photographs. This book is perfect for anyone captivated by the allure of supersonic flight.
