What was the 747 originally designed for?

The 747 was originally designed to ferry passengers for just a few years, as Boeing’s SST was being finalized, before being converted into a cargo carrier. And it was that cargo purpose that led to the aircraft’s defining exterior design element: her hump.

Why did Boeing make the 747?

With demand for air travel on the rise, the Boeing 747 would offer airlines greater seating capacity, increased range, and extra room for luxuries such as onboard lounges and bars. Though it took its first flight in 1969, it wouldn’t enter service until January 22, 1970 – 51 years ago – with Pan American World Airways.

Why was the 747 designed with a hump?

The plane was designed for both passengers and cargo, so if passengers stopped flying it, the 747 was still useful. That’s where the iconic hump comes in. Engineers decided to turn the front of the plane into a giant door. The nose would open up, making it easy to load tall cargo.

What did Boeing make originally?

Boeing’s origin dates to 1916 when the American timber merchant William E. Boeing founded Aero Products Company shortly after he and U.S. Navy officer Conrad Westervelt developed a single-engine, two-seat seaplane, the B&W.

Where is the original 747?

SEATTLE — After years of falling into disrepair, the world’s first Boeing 747 has finally received some much-needed tender love and care. Permanently parked at the Museum of Flight in Seattle, the hulking jet is easy to spot.

Is 747 still flying?

With the full-fleet 747 retirements of Qantas, KLM, and British Airways in 2020, the Boeing 747 is becoming an increasingly rare bird when it comes to passenger operations.

Are 747s still flying?

When was the 747 introduced?

Feb. 9, 1969
Technical Specifications

Who built Boeing 747?

Boeing
Boeing Commercial Airplanes
Boeing 747-400/Manufacturers

Why is the 747 called the 747?

It was called the 747. Sutter asked Pan Am and other airlines what they would like from the plane. At the time, it was thought that supersonic aircraft would replace the 747. Because of this, Boeing made the 747 so that it could easily be turned into a cargo plane if the passenger version became less popular.