The process of flying is fairly standard. We are all used to the process of checking in, getting through security, and boarding the plane. In fact, most travelers know the safety instructions given by the flight attendants by heart! It’s easy to forget that flying was once a special, glamorous event – more like a cocktail party than a means of transportation.

As United Airlines prepares to say goodbye to the Boeing 747, let’s take a quick look back at the golden age of flight.

United first flew the iconic 747 – identifiable by the hump on the front of the plane – 47 years ago, in 1970. Back then, the interior looked more like a lounge than the cabins we’re used to seeing today – they had chairs, couches, and even a full-service bar! As the first widebody aircraft ever produced, there were many amenities that travelers hadn’t seen before. And we would be remiss not to mention those amazing patterned flight attendant outfits!

United’s use of the 747 embodied the sentiment that it’s “about the journey, not the destination.” Take a step back in time and enjoy these vintage 747 pictures!