Iron Maiden's Ed Force One Transformed into Unique Collectible Tags
Iron Maiden’s iconic Boeing 747-400, known as Ed Force One, has been transformed from a legendary tour aircraft into a unique collectible item. Initially retired and dismantled at Cotswold Airport in Camble, Gloucestershire, the aircraft played a pivotal role during the band’s 2016 Book of Souls world tour, facilitating global performances alongside their technical crew and concert equipment.
German company Aviationtag has ingeniously repurposed parts of Ed Force One into exclusive tags, crafted from the plane’s fuselage. Each tag measures approximately 35 by 88 millimeters and is available as a keychain or collector’s piece. Utilizing up to nine layers of paint from the blue tail fin and segments of the white fuselage, the tags encapsulate both the aesthetic and technical essence of the original aircraft. The limited edition release comprises 12,000 units, priced at €66.66, reflecting the band’s signature themes.
Bruce Dickinson, Iron Maiden’s frontman and licensed pilot, highlighted the aircraft’s legacy, stating, “This is not just any old Boeing 747, but the one I learned to pilot, flying Maiden across the globe. It’s a piece of the plane transformed into something enduring.” Aviationtag’s Chief Commercial Officer Tobias Richter emphasized the meticulous craftsmanship involved, ensuring each tag maintains the uniqueness of Ed Force One’s storied history.
Originally delivered to Air France in 2003 and later operated by Air Atlanta Icelandic and Saudi Arabia Airlines, Ed Force One was revered for its reliability and performance. With a length of 71 meters and equipped with four powerful engines, the Boeing 747-400 remains a benchmark in aviation engineering. The transition of Ed Force One into collectible tags not only preserves the aircraft’s legacy but also offers fans a tangible connection to Iron Maiden’s illustrious touring past.
Prospective collectors can subscribe for notifications on future batches, as the initial release has already sold out. Future editions may feature variations, including gold-colored tags uncovered beneath the original paint layers, promising even more distinctive items for enthusiasts.