After over seven decades, it looks like the end is near for one of the world’s most beloved aircraft.

The Boeing 737 has dominated the skies for a generation, but its recent troubles and the rise of more efficient aircraft have cast a shadow of doubt over its ability to continue performing.

And while Boeing's rivals are pushing boundaries with cuttingedge aircraft technology, it seems that its mostsold aircraft ever has reached its life's end.

Here’s why.