Twelve special stamps have been released to honour the supersonic jet’s “innovation, elegance and engineering excellence,” 50 years after British Airways’ first Concorde flight left Heathrow for Bahrain on January 21, 1976.
To mark the occasion, a coordinated nose-drop event took place at 11.40 am on Wednesday, January 21 , with the famous droop-nosed aircraft at Aerospace Bristol, Manchester Airport’s Runway Visitor Park, and Imperial War Museum Duxford all lowering their noses in unison.
David Gold, director of external affairs and policy at 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.”
Of the 12 stamps, eight feature British Airways’ Concordes through their operational years, including the first and last commercial flights.
One shows four Concordes flying in formation to mark the jet’s 10th anniversary in service.
The remaining four stamps are part of a miniature sheet.
At Heathrow Airport, where the first commercial passenger flight departed, the event has reignited memories of a golden era in British aviation.
Hamish McVey, director of marketing for British Airways, said: “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.”
Concorde’s hydraulically operated nose cone, which dropped to improve runway visibility during take-off and landing, remains an iconic feature of the aircraft’s design.
This detail was brought to life during the anniversary, as the three UK-based Concordes performed a simultaneous nose-drop for assembled spectators.
Further south at Brooklands Museum in Surrey, home to another Concorde, the celebrations included a special evening dinner on Wednesday.
Guests had the chance to hear from eight former Concorde pilots and view archive material.
Last week, the Royal Mint also released a special 50p coin to mark Concorde’s half-century.
Born from a joint Anglo-French project, Concorde quickly became a symbol of technological achievement and national pride, famed for its speed and luxury.
With a cruising speed of 1,350mph—twice the speed of sound—the aircraft could cover a mile in just 2.75 seconds.
It served a clientele of celebrities, business leaders, and royalty, including Joan Collins, Sir Paul McCartney, and Diana, Princess of Wales.
Passengers enjoyed fine wines and gourmet meals.
However, Concorde’s service came to an end in October 2003, following a decline in passenger numbers and rising maintenance costs.
The final flight marked the close of an era, leaving behind a legacy that continues to fascinate and inspire.
