Throwback plane pictures

Moving outside, the group got their first view of the airplane. Visibly speechless, some participants took the time to walk around the aircraft, while others decided to relive some past memories.

Doug Parker began with a short speech about how he missed America West, and after researching the background of US Airways, found various websites (including this one) to read the history of the predecessor airlines - which led to the Throwback schemes.

Looking back at the crowd.

Leo Leonard was invited to speak briefly about some of his experiences.

All employees who were dressed in uniform were asked on stage for the actual dedication. Quoting Doug, "We pull this handle down, and something is going to happen".

And that something was a blast of streamers over the airplane.

(Courtesy Fred Hall)

That's all, folks!