As a 1K appreciation event a few years ago, the OAK customer service and maintenance base team took us through their Oakland facility, where many (all?) of the 747s are worked on. Any four 747s can be pulled indoors and simultaneously upgraded on three levels from two sides.

Except for the December and summer holidays, these planes have been coming and going at a healthy clip for a few years, interrupted by an odd 727 or new 777. The entry road to the OAK terminal passes right by this facility.

On our tour, we got to see the old video systems going out (remember the 1st gen in-seat LCDs?), new lavs and engines going in, employee gift shop. If UA or M+ folks ever offer you the chance to see these facilities and meet the people doing this work...don't miss it.

Aside from the OAK and SFO maintenance facilities, I believe IND, DEN and ORD have other large operations. Have any UA-lurkers or tour recipients seen 747 re-treads?




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UA 1K since 1997, hitting MM < 9-30-01.