Brand new United Airlines Boeing 747-400 (N174UA) at Paine Field in 1989
This is a photo of a brand spanking new Boeing 747-400 outside of Boeing’s hangars at Paine Field. The photo was taken in 1989 with probably my favorite United Airlines Livery. She was given the registration number N174UA and had an interesting incident shortly after delivery.
In 1990 the nose gear did not extend all the way and BAM, the aircraft’s nose ended up hitting the tarmac (photo1 & photo2). There was minor damage and she was quickly back out flying. In fact, she is still flying for United Airlines today. She will be flying today from Narita International Airport to Los Angeles. A lot has changed as far as technology and the equipment inside, but she is still the beautiful bird she was back in 1989.
Full sized image or 91 Photos of N174UA on Airliners.net
Photo by EuroNorb (Dave)
I remember when that livery was announced….the horror! The ridicule! The banterings back and forth. I liked it too. I also remember touring the Boeing Factory in about 1970 or so when the 747 had just come out. I used to actually have the little bound picture book that they gave us on the tour….about this brand new GIANT 747. I wish I still had that promotional book.
Wow – look at all the Inventory…
I’ve always loved that paint scheme, even though a lot of people hate it. To be fair, the one before it wasn’t bad either.
That livery was beautiful. I don’t think a lot of people hate it, it’s one of United’s most well known liveries and has a loyal following. Save the Tulip!