Time Period: Interwar Period
Country of Origin: United States
Type: Airliner
Manufacturer: Boeing
Boeing 247 Aircraft Overview
The Boeing 247 is considered one of the first modern airliners, representing a significant leap forward in aviation technology during the 1930s. Introduced by Boeing in 1933, it set a new standard for passenger aircraft with its speed, comfort, and advanced engineering, influencing the design of future airliners.
The Boeing 247 featured an all-metal, low-wing monoplane design that was both durable and aerodynamic. It was equipped with retractable landing gear, a significant innovation at the time, and variable-pitch propellers, which improved performance and fuel efficiency. The aircraft was powered by two Pratt & Whitney R-1340 Wasp radial engines, each producing 550 horsepower, enabling faster and more reliable flights.
The interior of the 247 was designed for passenger comfort, with seating for 10 passengers in a climate-controlled cabin, which was relatively luxurious for the time. It also included soundproofing to reduce engine noise, enhancing the travel experience.
Boeing 247's Impact on Aviation and Legacy
The Boeing 247 marked a turning point in commercial aviation by integrating advanced technologies that became standard in later airliners. It was the first aircraft to combine an all-metal structure with modern aerodynamics and innovations like autopilot, setting a precedent for future designs. However, its production numbers were relatively limited, as it faced competition from the Douglas DC-3, which offered greater passenger capacity and operating efficiency.
While only 75 Boeing 247s were built, its influence on the aviation industry was profound. It demonstrated the potential of modern airliners to provide fast, reliable, and comfortable service, paving the way for the rapid expansion of commercial aviation. The Boeing 247 is remembered as a pioneer in airliner design and an essential step in the evolution of passenger flight.
Boeing 247D Specifications
- Crew: Three (pilot, co-pilot, and flight attendant or engineer)
- Passenger Capacity: Accommodates 10 passengers, along with baggage and up to 400 pounds (181 kilograms) of mail
- Length: 51 feet 7 inches (15.72 meters)
- Wingspan: 74 feet 1 inch (22.58 meters)
- Height: 12 feet 1.75 inches (3.70 meters)
- Wing Area: 836.13 square feet (77.68 square meters)
- Airfoil: Boeing 106B
- Empty Weight: 8,921 pounds (4,046 kilograms)
- Maximum Takeoff Weight: 13,650 pounds (6,192 kilograms)
- Fuel Capacity: 273 US gallons (227 imperial gallons or 1,030 liters)
- Engines: Two Pratt & Whitney R-1340 S1H1-G Wasp radial piston engines, each producing 500 horsepower (370 kW) at 2,200 rpm at 8,000 feet (2,400 meters)
- Propellers: Two-bladed variable-pitch propellers (three-bladed propellers depicted in some illustrations)
Boeing 247D Performance
- Maximum Speed: 200 mph (320 km/h, 170 knots)
- Cruise Speed: 189 mph (304 km/h, 164 knots) at an altitude of 12,000 feet (3,700 meters)
- Range: 745 miles (1,199 kilometers, 647 nautical miles)
- Service Ceiling: 25,400 feet (7,700 meters)
- Absolute Ceiling: 27,200 feet (8,291 meters)
- Rate of Climb: 1,150 feet per minute (5.8 meters per second)
