The first Concorde jet just got a monumental honor in France, and it's very fitting
- Concorde was one of the greatest innovations of the 20th century
- It was part of an international treaty between France and Britain
- France’s Culture Minister bestowed a huge honor upon the jet
Published on May 07, 2025 at 8:58 PM (UTC+4)
by Keelin McNamara
Last updated on May 08, 2025 at 1:13 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Emma Matthews
Concorde is one of the most famous feats of engineering from the 20th century.
This collaboration between Britain and France led to supersonic airplane travel.
However, it only lasted for 27 years, with Concorde being grounded in 2003.
Yesterday, there was some very good news – as the first supersonic jet is now a historical landmark.
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Concorde project conceived in early 1950s
The 1950s were a very exciting time for the West – especially travelers.
Traveling across the world started to become much more feasible, thanks to the airplane.
Prior to that, sailing across the sea had always been the dominant passage of choice.
By the early 1950s, Britain and France had both been working on plans for supersonic travel.
France had already decided to buy a British engine for their design, so a partnership was inevitable.
The project was eventually signed as an international treaty, rather than a private agreement.
It was christened Concorde as the name means “peace/harmony” in both English and French.
The first Concorde, designated “F-WTSS”, made its maiden voyage on March 2nd, 1969.
It took off from its spiritual home, Toulouse, and stayed in the air for just 27 minutes.
The plane cut transatlantic flight times in half, but resulted in sonic booms.
In fact, the aircraft was able to achieve transatlantic travel to the East Coast in just three hours.
It was exclusively operated by both British Airways and Air France during its working life.
Sadly, the project was shut down by Air France and British Airways in 2003.
Landmark jet gets recognition as an historical landmark
As mentioned, Concorde made some very cool history yesterday in France.
The Concorde No. 1 prototype is the unit that paved the way for subsequent supersonic travel.
France’s Culture Minister, Rachida Dati, made the announcement Monday.
The Minister explained that the plane’s preservation serves as inspiration for future generations.
“This plane, a pioneer in supersonic flight, remains in our memories,” said Dati.
Concorde 001, the prototype in question, is currently in Toulouse.
The southern French city is home to the Aeroscopia Museum, where the supersonic craft now resides.
We have to say that we think it’s very appropriate that Concorde gets the recognition it deserves.
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Keelin McNamara is a content writer at Supercar Blondie from Ireland, covering cars, technology, and lifestyle. Despite being a Law graduate, he discovered his passion for journalism during the COVID-19 pandemic, and has worked in the industry ever since. Outside of work, he is an avid MotoGP fan, and is a self-confessed addict of the sport.
