The Boeing 747-100 is the original model of the 747 series and the first wide-body airliner ever produced by Boeing. Introduced in 1970, it revolutionized air travel by offering significantly greater passenger capacity and longer ranges than previous aircraft. The 747-100's iconic humpback design, housing a second-level passenger cabin, became a symbol of modern air travel. Designed primarily for long-haul flights, the 747-100 allowed airlines to offer more economical flights on heavily traveled routes.

As the first of the 747 family, the -100 played a crucial role in popularizing intercontinental travel and solidifying Boeing’s place in the wide-body aircraft market. Over time, the model was gradually replaced by newer variants with greater capacity and improved efficiency.

Key Specifications (747-100)

• Crew: 3 (2 pilots, 1 flight engineer).
• Capacity: Typically 366–490 passengers, depending on configuration.
• Length: 70.66 m (231 ft 2 in).
• Wingspan: 64.44 m (211 ft 5 in).
• Height: 19.35 m (63 ft 6 in).
• Max Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 735,000 kg (1,629,000 lb).
• Engines: 4 × Pratt & Whitney JT9D-7 turbofans or Rolls-Royce RB211-524 turbofans.
• Cruise Speed: Mach 0.85 (~907 km/h or 564 mph).
• Range: ~7,260 km (4,510 mi).
• Ceiling: 45,000 ft (13,716 m).

Notable Features

• Wide-Body Design: The 747-100 was the first-ever wide-body airliner, introducing a two-aisle configuration with an upper deck for additional capacity.
• Large Capacity: With seating for up to 490 passengers, the 747-100 provided unmatched capacity for its time.
• Long Range: Capable of flying intercontinental routes, the 747-100 made long-haul travel more economical for airlines.
• Iconic Humpback Design: The distinctive upper deck set the 747 apart from other aircraft, offering more passenger space or allowing for the possibility of cargo conversions.
• Advanced Systems: For its time, the 747-100 introduced modern avionics and systems that improved operational efficiency.

Operators & Usage

• The Boeing 747-100 was primarily used by major international airlines like Pan Am, TWA, and British Airways for long-haul flights.
• The model was phased out by most airlines in favor of more efficient variants, like the 747-200 and 747-400.
• Many 747-100s were converted to freighters, and some have been used for specialized roles, including transport of cargo and even as a space shuttle carrier.
• The 747-100 was gradually retired after more advanced versions offered better performance and fuel efficiency.