13 Oldest Aircraft That Refuse to Retire & Still In Service

Did you know that some aircraft soaring through our skies today are older than many pilots flying them? In an era of rapid technological advancement, where sleek new designs emerge yearly, a select group of venerable flying machines stubbornly refuse to retire. 

The secret to their longevity lies in regular maintenance, careful upgrades, and the crews’ dedication that keeps them airborne.

Here is the rich history and incredible resilience of these 10 aircraft that refuse to retire.

1. Nolinor Aviation Boeing 737 (1976)

Topping our list is the Boeing 737, operated by Nolinor Aviation, a charter airline based in Canada. This aircraft first took to the skies in 1976, making it the oldest plane still in commercial service. 

Despite its age, this 737 continues to fly thanks to regular maintenance and numerous updates.

Nolinor Aviation specializes in charter flights to remote regions of Canada, and its vintage 737 has proven to be a reliable workhorse for these challenging routes. 

With a seating capacity of up to 119 passengers, this old-timer shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.

2. Venezolana Boeing 737 (1978)

Coming in second is another Boeing 737, operated by Venezolana, an airline based in Venezuela. This plane first flew in 1978 and was previously owned by United Airlines before finding its new home in South America.

Venezolana operates domestic and international flights, and their 1978 Boeing 737 has been a fleet staple for years. 

The longevity of this aircraft is a testament to the durability and reliability of the 737 design, which has been a popular choice for airlines worldwide since its introduction in the late 1960s.

3. Air Inuit Boeing 737 (1979)

Air Inuit, a small Canadian airline based in Quebec, operates a Boeing 737 that first took flight in 1979. This plane serves the remote communities of northern Quebec, providing vital transportation links to the rest of the country.

The harsh weather conditions and challenging terrain of the Canadian Arctic regularly put this vintage 737 to the test, but it continues to perform admirably. 

Air Inuit’s commitment to maintaining and upgrading its fleet has allowed this old bird to fly high.

4. Iran Air Airbus A300B2 (1981)

Iran Air, the national airline of Iran, operates an Airbus A300B2 that first entered service in 1981. This wide-body aircraft has been a workhorse for the airline, flying domestic and international routes.

Despite the challenges faced by Iran’s aviation industry due to international sanctions, Iran Air has managed to keep its vintage A300 in the air. 

The airline’s skilled maintenance crews have kept this plane in top condition, ensuring its safety and reliability.

5. Eastern Airlines Boeing 767 (1984)

Eastern Airlines, a U.S. carrier that was once one of the “big four” airlines in the country, operates a Boeing 767 that first flew in 1984. This wide-body aircraft has been a staple of Eastern’s fleet, flying to destinations in the Caribbean and South America.

The 767 has proven to be a versatile and reliable aircraft, and Eastern Airlines’ 1984 model is no exception. 

Regular maintenance and updates have kept this plane in top form, allowing it to continue serving passengers for decades.

6. Mahan Airlines Boeing 747 (1986)

Mahan Airlines, a private airline based in Iran, operates a Boeing 747 that first took to the skies in 1986. This jumbo jet has been a key part of Mahan’s fleet, flying domestic and international routes.

The 747, known as the “Queen of the Skies,” has been a popular airline choice since its introduction in the late 1960s. 

Mahan Airlines’ vintage 747 has undergone numerous updates and renovations to keep it flying safely and efficiently.

7. AeroJet Embraer 120 Brasilia (1987)

AeroJet, an airline based in Angola, operates an Embraer 120 Brasilia that entered service in 1987. This twin-turboprop aircraft is designed for regional flights and has been a reliable performer for AeroJet.

The Embraer 120 Brasilia is known for its fuel efficiency and low operating costs, making it an attractive choice for regional airlines like AeroJet. 

Despite its age, this plane continues to serve passengers thanks to regular maintenance and updates.

8. Jet2 Boeing 757 (1988)

Jet2, a British low-cost airline, operates a Boeing 757 that first flew in 1988. This narrow-body aircraft has been a key part of Jet2’s fleet, flying to European and Mediterranean destinations.

The 757 is known for its versatility and reliability, and Jet2’s vintage model is no exception. 

The airline’s commitment to maintaining and upgrading its fleet has allowed this old bird to keep flying high, transporting vacationers to sunny destinations year after year.

9. Delta Air Lines Boeing 757 (1989 & 1990)

Delta Air Lines, one of the largest airlines in the world, operates two Boeing 757s that first entered service in 1989 and 1990. These narrow-body aircraft have been workhorses for Delta, flying both domestic and international routes.

The 757 has been a popular airline choice due to its fuel efficiency and range, allowing it to fly long distances while still being cost-effective. 

Delta’s vintage 757s have undergone numerous updates and renovations, ensuring their safety and reliability for the millions of passengers they have carried.

10. Lockheed C-130 Hercules (1950s)

While not a commercial passenger aircraft, the Lockheed C-130 Hercules deserves an honorable mention. This military transport plane first entered service in the 1950s and is still used today by air forces worldwide.

The C-130 is known for its rugged durability, versatility, and ability to operate in various environments and conditions. From transporting troops and cargo to performing humanitarian missions, the C-130 has proven its worth time and time again. 

With over 2,500 aircraft produced, the C-130 is one of history’s longest-running military aircraft programs.