KLM 747: Aviation Meets Art at Charlotte Douglas International Airport

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) has always been more than a busy hub for travelers. It’s a place where millions of people experience the wonder of flight every year. In 2023, CLT partnered with MotoArt Studios to create a series of permanent installations that honor aviation’s past while welcoming travelers into the future.

Through these unique works, each crafted from historic aircraft components, CLT has woven aviation history into the fabric of its terminal expansion. Every piece blends artistry, functionality, and heritage, turning the passenger experience into something truly memorable. Read on to find out more about the project and new Boeing 747 PlaneTags that honor this collaboration.

A Partnership with Purpose

The collaboration between CLT and MotoArt was guided by a shared vision: to transform authentic aircraft parts into functional, artistic centerpieces that elevate the traveler experience. MotoArt’s founder, Dave Hall, has long championed the idea that aviation history should be preserved in tangible, interactive ways.

At CLT, this vision comes to life in spectacular form. Passengers waiting for a flight, asking for directions, or simply exploring the terminal are now interacting directly with elements of real aircraft that once carried passengers around the world. These aren’t just displays. They are living artifacts that tell the story of aviation.

Boeing 747 PH-BFD: From the Skies to the Terminal

KLM / PH-BFD / Boeing 747-400 / EHAM-AMS 18L / © flickr photo by RVA Aviation Photography (Robin Van Acker) shared under a Creative Commons (BY-NC-SA 2.0) license

One of the standout installations comes from a legendary aircraft: the Boeing 747-406M, registration PH-BFD, once flown by KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. Built in 1989 and christened City of Dubai, this “Queen of the Skies” was a Combi variant, designed to carry both passengers and freight across continents. For nearly three decades, PH-BFD was part of KLM’s long-haul fleet, serving countless routes and flying under both the KLM and KLM Asia banners.

After a career spanning from 1989 to 2017, PH-BFD was retired and later dismantled. Instead of fading quietly into history, however, a part of her fuselage was transformed into a KLM-branded information booth at CLT. Today, this booth stands as both a tribute to the aircraft’s service and a practical hub for travelers seeking assistance. It’s a reminder that the iconic silhouette of the 747 still inspires wonder, even when it’s grounded.

Iconic MotoArt Creations at CLT

The transformation of PH-BFD is only one part of the story. MotoArt’s craftsmanship is visible throughout CLT’s terminal expansion, where several aircraft were reimagined into bold, functional designs

Boeing 777 Cowling Desk

Once wrapped around the engines of a widebody jet that crisscrossed the globe, this massive 777 cowling now serves as a passenger information desk. Its polished curves and aerodynamic form have been repurposed into a sleek centerpiece, demonstrating how an industrial component can become a work of public art, all while guiding travelers through the terminal.

KLM 747 Fuselage Booth

The KLM 747 fuselage booth blends practicality with nostalgia. Beyond providing information, it offers a rare chance for travelers to connect with the story of PH-BFD, a jumbo jet that once connected continents. Its bright blue panels make it a recognizable, welcoming landmark inside the terminal.

MD-82 T-Tail Installation

Just steps away, near Gate A31, visitors will notice a full-sized MD-82 T-Tail set into the floor. This permanent installation is a striking reminder of the aircraft that once dominated American skies, giving passengers the unique experience of walking alongside a piece of aviation heritage as they make their way to their gate.

Together, these installations create a sense of place and storytelling within CLT, making the airport itself a destination for aviation enthusiasts and everyday travelers alike. Enjoy this video from CLT. 

MotoArt’s Design Philosophy

MotoArt’s journey began in 2001, with a simple but ambitious vision: to give retired aircraft a second life. What started as creating bespoke aviation-themed furniture and art quickly grew into a movement that connected collectors, travelers, and aviation enthusiasts worldwide. From conference tables built from wing sections to sculptural art crafted from propellers, MotoArt redefined how aviation history could live on.

A decade ago, in November 2015, MotoArt expanded this philosophy by launching its first PlaneTags, small, hand-crafted mementos cut from the very skin of historic aircraft. In the ten years since, these collectible tags have become a beloved way for enthusiasts to hold a tangible piece of aviation history. Whether it’s a massive airport installation or a single tag, the mission has remained the same: preserve and share aviation heritage through thoughtful, artistic design.

“It’s an honor to work with these incredible aircraft and create something that allows people to connect with history in a real, lasting way. Every piece we build, whether it's a terminal desk, a display, or PlaneTags, carries the legacy of the aircraft forward.” - Kevin White, MotoArt’s project manager

“From day one, our goal was to make each project as beautiful as it is meaningful. That artistry carries through from our large-scale furniture and airport installations all the way to the smallest PlaneTags. Everything matters. The engraving on the tag, the design of the display card, the finish of the material. Everything that comes from our shop is a small work of art that honors aviation history.” - Dave Hall, MotoArt PlaneTags CEO

This philosophy guides every MotoArt project, ensuring that aviation’s story is not only remembered but celebrated, in ways both grand and intimate.

Looking Ahead

MotoArt’s work at Charlotte Douglas International Airport represents just one chapter in our mission to preserve aviation history in meaningful, tangible ways. From large-scale airport installations to the small, collectible PlaneTags that travel the world in people’s pockets, every project carries the same purpose: honoring aviation’s past while inspiring future generations.

As we continue to expand our collection of PlaneTags and pursue new collaborations with museums, airlines, and airports, one thing remains constant, our commitment to craftsmanship and storytelling. Aviation history isn’t just something to be studied; it’s something to be experienced, held, and shared.

Introducing Boeing 747 PH-BFD PlaneTags

On Thursday, October 2nd at 12 PM Pacific, MotoArt will release a limited-edition run of PlaneTags made from the skin of PH-BFD, the very Boeing 747 that once flew with KLM and now greets travelers at Charlotte Douglas International Airport.

Each tag is a hand-crafted collectible, engraved and packaged with the same attention to detail that defines all of MotoArt’s work. These PlaneTags offer collectors and aviation enthusiasts a unique opportunity to own a piece of a legendary aircraft, the “Queen of the Skies” herself.

Other 747 Legends in the PlaneTags Collection

PH-BFD joins an elite group of Boeing 747s preserved by MotoArt as PlaneTags. Known as the “Queen of the Skies,” the 747 changed global travel forever, and our collection reflects its incredible legacy across different airlines and eras:

• United Airlines – N120UA
  A 747-422 that served with United, one of the world’s largest 747 operators.

• Korean Air – HL7495 & HL7489
  Two iconic 747-400s that carried millions of passengers across transpacific routes. HL7489 is particularly special, with its forward fuselage on display at the California Science Center.

• Trans World Airlines (TWA) – N129TW
  A 747-131 that represents the golden age of TWA, one of the most storied airlines in aviation history.

• EVA Air – B-16462
  A 747-45EM that carried the flag of Taiwan’s EVA Air on long-haul routes around the globe.

• Qantas – VH-OJP SOLD OUT
  Part of the legendary “Flying Kangaroo” fleet, this 747-438 flew passengers to destinations across the world under Australia’s flag carrier. Don't miss our Qantas 747 Coaster collection before they are sold out too. 

• Atlas Air – N522MC
  A freighter that highlights the versatility of the 747, from carrying passengers to becoming the backbone of global cargo transport.

Each of these PlaneTags gives collectors a chance to hold a piece of aviation history in their hands. With the release of KLM’s PH-BFD PlaneTags, the legacy of the 747 continues to grow within our collection.

Be Part of the Story

If you’re traveling through CLT, we invite you to visit the Boeing 777 Cowling Desk, the MD-82 T-Tail installation, and the KLM 747 fuselage booth, each one a living monument to aviation history. Snap a photo of your favorite installation and share it on social media with the hashtag #MotoArtAtCLT. We’ll be featuring our favorite posts on our own channels, so your story can become part of the legacy too.

Thank you to CLT Airport for sharing their photos and videos from the project and for the amazing collaboration. Follow CLT on all socials: Instagram | Facebook | YouTube