The Boeing 747SP (Special Performance) is a shortened version of the iconic 747, designed for ultra-long-range flights. Introduced in 1976, the 747SP was created to meet the needs of airlines requiring a high-capacity aircraft with the ability to fly longer distances, without the larger size and weight of the full 747-100 or -200. Its distinctive shorter fuselage and reduced number of seats made it an efficient aircraft for high-demand, long-range routes.

While the 747SP did not achieve the widespread success of the larger 747 variants, it remains a notable part of aviation history, particularly for its range capabilities. The 747SP was used by several major airlines for intercontinental flights and was also adapted for specialized missions, including as a VIP transport for heads of state and as a test aircraft for NASA.

Key Specifications (747SP)

• Crew: 2 (Pilots).
• Capacity: Typically 250–300 passengers, depending on configuration.
• Length: 56.31 m (184 ft 4 in).
• Wingspan: 59.64 m (195 ft 11 in).
• Height: 19.40 m (63 ft 7 in).
• Max Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 700,000 kg (1,543,000 lb).
• Engines: 4 × Pratt & Whitney JT9D-7A turbofans.
• Cruise Speed: Mach 0.85 (~907 km/h or 564 mph).
• Range: ~11,400 km (7,080 mi).
• Ceiling: 45,000 ft (13,716 m).

Notable Features

• Shortened Fuselage: The 747SP’s shorter fuselage made it more fuel-efficient for long-range routes, while sacrificing some of the passenger capacity compared to the 747-100 and -200.
• Long-Range Capability: With its extended range, the 747SP could fly nonstop on some of the longest commercial routes, including those from New York to Hong Kong or Los Angeles to Sydney.
• Distinctive Appearance: The 747SP is easily recognizable by its shorter, more compact body compared to other 747 variants, giving it a unique and sleek profile.
• Upgraded Aerodynamics: The 747SP incorporated some aerodynamic improvements over earlier 747 models, which contributed to its greater fuel efficiency and extended range.
• Luxury and Specialized Use: In addition to its commercial use, several 747SPs were converted into VIP transports, including those for heads of state, and used for other specialized roles, including by NASA for aerospace testing.

Operators & Usage

• Airline Service: The 747SP was primarily used by airlines such as Pan American World Airways (Pan Am), TWA, and Emirates, for high-demand, long-haul routes where fewer seats were needed but long-range capability was essential.
• Niche Market: While the 747SP was not as widely adopted as other 747 variants, it found a niche market for airlines needing ultra-long-range performance and for smaller, high-density routes that required efficient operation.
• Specialized Conversions: Some 747SPs were converted for VIP transport, including the aircraft used by the Shah of Iran and the former President of the United States. NASA also used a 747SP as a test aircraft for space-related research.
• Retirement: Most 747SPs were retired from commercial service in the early 2000s, although some remain in use with cargo carriers and as private jets.