Boeing 247

Definition

The Boeing 247 was a groundbreaking commercial aircraft developed by Boeing, first introduced in 1933. This twin-engine airliner is significant for being one of the first all-metal, monoplane designs that featured a streamlined shape, retractable landing gear, and a fully enclosed cabin, setting new standards for air travel and marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of commercial aviation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Boeing 247 was introduced as the first commercial aircraft to utilize an all-metal structure, which enhanced its durability and performance compared to earlier fabric-covered planes.
2. Equipped with advanced features like retractable landing gear and a pressurized cabin, the Boeing 247 was designed to provide improved comfort and efficiency for passengers.
3. Boeing produced approximately 75 units of the 247 between 1933 and 1936, significantly impacting the airline industry by offering airlines a reliable and efficient means of transport.
4. The aircraft had a maximum speed of around 200 mph and could carry up to 10 passengers, making it competitive with contemporary aircraft like the Douglas DC-2.
5. The design and success of the Boeing 247 laid the groundwork for future Boeing models and innovations in commercial aviation, influencing aircraft development for decades.

Review Questions

• How did the introduction of the Boeing 247 change the landscape of commercial aviation in the early 20th century?
  • The introduction of the Boeing 247 marked a significant shift in commercial aviation due to its advanced all-metal construction, which improved durability and performance over earlier models. Its innovative features like retractable landing gear and enclosed cabin provided a more comfortable flying experience. This set new industry standards and encouraged airlines to adopt modern aircraft designs, influencing both operational efficiency and passenger comfort.
• Evaluate the impact of the Boeing 247 on airline operations compared to its contemporaries during its time.
  • The Boeing 247 had a profound impact on airline operations compared to its contemporaries by offering greater reliability and speed. While other aircraft like the Douglas DC-2 were also effective, the 247's advanced engineering allowed it to handle longer routes with more passengers comfortably. This competitiveness led airlines to favor modern designs over older models, enhancing overall service quality and operational effectiveness within the industry.
• Analyze how technological advancements seen in the Boeing 247 set precedents for future developments in the aerospace industry.
  • Technological advancements in the Boeing 247 established critical precedents for future developments in the aerospace industry. Its all-metal structure became standard for subsequent aircraft designs due to enhanced durability. Features like retractable landing gear and improved aerodynamics paved the way for innovations in performance and passenger experience in later models. The success of the Boeing 247 influenced not just commercial aviation but also military applications and paved the way for more complex aerospace engineering challenges in subsequent decades.

Related terms

Douglas DC-3: A highly successful and influential twin-engine airliner that revolutionized commercial aviation after its introduction in 1936, often considered the best aircraft of its time.

Aerospace Industry: The sector that encompasses the design, manufacturing, and operation of aircraft and spacecraft, playing a critical role in transportation, defense, and exploration.

Air Mail Act of 1925: Legislation that encouraged the growth of commercial aviation by allowing private companies to transport mail, which in turn stimulated passenger air travel.