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Between 1976 and 2003 British Airways’ Concorde planes operated close to 50,000 flights
Royal Mail is issuing a new set of stamps to mark the 50th anniversary of Concorde’s first commercial flight, on January 21, 1976. The first flights were from London to Bahrain and an Air France Concorde flight from Paris to Rio.
A collection of 12 unique stamps is available from today, Wednesday, January 21. The main set of eight stamps features stunning photography of the British Airways aircraft throughout its history, one collectable stamp uses photography of four Concordes flying in formation to celebrate 10 years of service.
A further four stamps, presented in a miniature sheet, include three previously issued stamp images and one never-before-seen design. Two are designed by influential British stamp designer David Gentleman, and one by Michael and Sylvia Goaman
Royal Mail are re-releasing the stamps, now showing the King Charles III silhouette, along with a fourth stamp design by David Gentleman, that was previously shortlisted but not adopted in the 1969 set.
The miniature sheet border image is inspired by the design of the original presentation pack from 1969.The idea of stamps to be issued following the first flight of Concorde was agreed in July 1967 by the British and French postal services.
David Gold, Director of External Affairs & Policy, Royal Mail, said: “Concorde remains one of the most iconic achievements in aviation history, and we’re proud to celebrate its legacy with this special set of stamps.
“These designs pay tribute to the innovation, elegance, and engineering excellence that made Concorde a symbol of British ingenuity and ambition.”
More than 2.5 million passengers have flown supersonically on Concorde since 1976. Each passenger was issued with a certificate to prove that they’d broken the sound barrier.
As the plane gathered speed, those on board could watch the Mach meter at the front of the cabin. The Mach meter measured speed not in miles per hour but in units of speed of sound.
Between 1976 and 2003 British Airways’ Concorde planes operated close to 50,000 flights, clocked up more than 140,000 flying hours, and travelled 140 million miles.
On April 10 2003, British Airways announced that it was retiring its fleet of seven Concordes. A farewell tour of the UK and North America commenced, with tens of thousands of fans saying their goodbyes to the iconic aircraft.
Hamish McVey, Director of Marketing, British Airways, added: “Concorde represents a landmark chapter in our history at British Airways, embodying the pioneering spirit of British innovation and creativity that remains integral to our brand today.
“The Royal Mail’s celebration of 50 years since her maiden flight highlights the enduring admiration many people still hold for this remarkable aircraft.”
The stamps, and a range of collectible products, are available from today at www.royalmail.com/concorde and by telephone on 03457 641 641. A Presentation Pack including all 12 stamps is priced at £21.30.
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