A unique piece of aviation history has returned to the skies as the famous registration number N1776R officially flies once again, nearly 50 years after it first became a patriotic symbol in American aviation.
Back in 1976, Overseas National Airways celebrated the United States Bicentennial with a specially painted Douglas DC-8 named “Independence.” The aircraft carried the registration N1776R and featured a bold red, white, and blue design honoring America’s 200th birthday. Its patriotic livery included “1776 ★ 1976” markings and a stars-and-stripes tail, making it one of the most memorable aircraft of its era.
Now, in 2026, the historic registration has been revived by Southwest Airlines on a brand-new Boeing 737 MAX 8 named “Independence One.” The aircraft was unveiled as part of celebrations marking America’s upcoming 250th birthday and features an eye-catching patriotic design inspired by the Declaration of Independence. The jet includes giant “1776” script, the phrase “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness,” along with 13 stars representing the original colonies.
The aircraft completed its first commercial flight on April 29, 2026, operating from Dallas to Philadelphia — the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence. Aviation enthusiasts around the world praised the return of the iconic N1776R registration, calling it a remarkable tribute connecting two generations of American aviation history.