First Flight of the Boeing 247

The Boeing 247 was a groundbreaking aircraft in aviation history, setting new standards for speed, comfort, and reliability in commercial air travel. Its first flight and subsequent developments would significantly impact the aviation industry and pave the way for modern airliners.

• Dates: The Boeing 247 made its first flight on February 8, 1933.
• Design and features: The aircraft was an all-metal, twin-engine, low-wing monoplane with retractable landing gear, a first for a commercial airliner. It could carry up to ten passengers and featured several innovations, such as variable-pitch propellers, autopilot, and advanced soundproofing for passenger comfort.
• Speed and range: With a cruising speed of 189 mph (305 km/h) and a range of 745 miles (1,200 km), the Boeing 247 significantly outperformed its contemporaries, cutting cross-country travel time in the United States by more than half.
• Main customer: United Air Lines (later United Airlines) was the primary customer for the Boeing 247, initially ordering 60 aircraft. However, this exclusivity led to other airlines seeking alternatives, which eventually resulted in the development of the Douglas DC-2 and DC-3 aircraft that would surpass the 247 in terms of performance and popularity.
• Trivial facts: The Boeing 247 is sometimes referred to as the first “modern” airliner, given its numerous advancements in design and technology. Also, the aircraft was involved in the 1934 MacRobertson Air Race, where it finished third, beaten by two specially designed racing aircraft.
• Effects on pop culture: The Boeing 247, while not as iconic as some other aircraft of its era, was a key milestone in the history of aviation and commercial air travel. Its technological advancements helped make air travel more accessible and comfortable, influencing future aircraft design and development.
• Prominent people and countries: The Boeing 247 was designed by a team led by Boeing engineer Arthur E. Raymond. The United States was the primary country involved in developing and using the aircraft, with United Air Lines being the main customer.

The Boeing 247 was a revolutionary aircraft that marked a significant step forward in commercial aviation. Its first flight in 1933 introduced numerous innovations that would influence future aircraft design. Although eventually surpassed by other airliners, the Boeing 247 remains an important milestone in the history of aviation and a testament to the rapid technological advancements of the time.