The First Modern Airliner: The Boeing 247

Summary

The Boeing 247, introduced in 1933, was the first modern airliner, revolutionizing commercial aviation with its speed, safety, and comfort. Designed by CN Monty Monteith, it featured advanced aerodynamics, all-metal construction, and innovations like autopilot and cabin air conditioning. Though quickly surpassed by the DC-2, the 247 set new standards in air travel. Its impact extended beyond commercial flight, influencing military aircraft like the B-17 Flying Fortress. Despite a short production run, the Boeing 247 remains a significant milestone in aviation history.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Boeing 247 is considered the first modern airliner, marking the beginning of the era of comfort, safety, and reliability in commercial aviation.
• 😀 The Boeing 247 first flew on February 8th, 1933, and was developed using aerodynamics from the Boeing Monomail and B-9 bomber.
• 😀 Designed by Chief Engineer C.N. Monty Monteith, the 247 featured advanced technologies such as a twin-engine all-metal low wing monoplane and a retractable undercarriage.
• 😀 The Boeing 247 was one of the first aircraft to incorporate an autopilot and later models featured pneumatically operated de-icing equipment.
• 😀 The aircraft carried 10 passengers and a crew of three, offering a 50% faster service than competitors, reducing flight time between San Francisco and New York by 7.5 hours.
• 😀 United Airlines was the primary operator of the Boeing 247, but Boeing restricted orders to other airlines until United received its aircraft.
• 😀 The Boeing 247 was eventually outpaced by the Douglas DC-2, which offered greater speed, distance, and passenger capacity.
• 😀 In 1934, a Boeing 247 entered the Robeson Air Race, finishing in third place despite engine problems and a navigational error during the race.
• 😀 The upgraded Boeing 247D model saw improvements, including a top speed increase from 182 mph to 200 mph and better cruising efficiency.
• 😀 The Boeing 247 became the first commercial aircraft purchased by a non-U.S. airline when Lufthansa ordered two units, and a private Chinese owner also purchased one.
• 😀 Although only 78 Boeing 247 aircraft were produced, the aircraft's design influenced later Boeing models, including the B-17 Flying Fortress.

Q & A

What was the Boeing 247's main contribution to commercial aviation?

The Boeing 247 is regarded as the first modern airliner, revolutionizing commercial aviation by introducing significant advancements in safety, comfort, and reliability, setting a new standard for air travel.

When did the Boeing 247 first take to the skies?

The first Boeing 247 took to the air on February 8th, 1933.

What were some of the innovative features of the Boeing 247?

The Boeing 247 featured a twin-engine, all-metal low-wing monoplane design, retractable landing gear, an autopilot system, and pneumatic de-icing equipment, making it highly advanced for its time.

How much faster was the Boeing 247 compared to its competitors when it entered service?

The Boeing 247 was 50% faster than its competitors, traveling from San Francisco to New York in 19.5 hours, which was seven and a half hours quicker than other airliners at the time.

Which airline was the main operator of the Boeing 247?

United Airlines was the primary operator of the Boeing 247.

Why did other airlines struggle to acquire the Boeing 247?

Boeing and United Airlines were both part of the United Aircraft and Transportation Corporation, so Boeing initially barred all orders for the 247 until United Airlines had received its aircraft.

How did the Douglas DC-2 compare to the Boeing 247?

The Douglas DC-2, introduced soon after the 247, was faster, could fly further, and seat more passengers, quickly making the Boeing 247 obsolete in the commercial airliner market.

What role did the Boeing 247 play in the 1934 Robeson Air Race?

The Boeing 247 was entered in the 1934 Robeson Air Race from England to Melbourne, Australia, where it finished in third place despite engine problems and a three-hour navigational error.

What was the Boeing 247D, and what improvements did it offer?

The Boeing 247D was an upgraded version of the 247, featuring full NACA cowlings and variable pitch propellers, boosting its top speed to 200 mph and its cruise speed to 189 mph.

What international significance did the Boeing 247 hold?

The Boeing 247 became Boeing's first commercial aircraft to be purchased by a non-U.S. airline when Lufthansa ordered two aircraft, marking a key milestone in the aircraft's legacy.