The 747 preserved at the museum, N661US, known within Delta as Ship 6301, is an important piece of aviation history. Delta Ship 6301 was unveiled at Boeing's factory in 1988.

Twice as nice Delta Air Lines has operated the 747 on two occasions. The airline received its first Boeing 747s in 1970, the year it debuted with Pan Am.

Delta Air Lines will bring the Boeing 747 through Minneapolis-St. Paul for its farewell tour on Dec. 20 — likely the last time the legendary jumbo jet will provide passenger service at MSP.