description Boeing 247 Overview
The Boeing 247 was an American twin-engine commercial airliner that first flew in 1933 and is widely regarded as the first modern passenger aircraft. It incorporated advanced features for its time, including all-metal stressed-skin construction, retractable landing gear, variable-pitch propellers, and an autopilot system. The aircraft could fly coast-to-coast across the United States in roughly 20 hours, significantly reducing travel times. It was primarily operated by United Air Lines, though its dominance was quickly surpassed by the Douglas DC-2 and DC-3.
help Boeing 247 FAQ
Why is the Boeing 247 considered a modern airliner?
The Boeing 247 combined all-metal stressed-skin construction, a low-wing monoplane layout, retractable landing gear, variable-pitch propellers, de-icing equipment, and an autopilot. Its first flight was on February 8, 1933. [Boeing historical products guide](https://www.boeing.com/content/dam/boeing/boeingdotcom/history/pdf/Boeing_Products.pdf)
How many passengers could a Boeing 247 carry?
The standard Boeing 247 carried 10 passengers and used two Pratt and Whitney Wasp engines. Boeing records that only 75 aircraft were built, including aircraft later converted for military transport and training.
Why did the Douglas DC-2 overtake the Boeing 247?
The Douglas DC-2 soon displaced the 247 in much of the commercial market because it offered a larger and more competitive transport design. The 247 was still important because it introduced the technical package that made later modern airliners practical.
How fast was the Boeing 247 for its time?
The 247 had a top speed of about 200 miles per hour and could fly between New York and Los Angeles in about 20 hours with seven stops. Boeing noted that this was roughly seven and a half hours faster than previous airliners on the same journey.
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