PMDG 747-400 Queen of the Skies II
The Boeing 747 started with a handshake. Following the massive success of the 707 and the rapid expansion in air travel, Pan American World Airways’ founder Juan Trippe wanted an even bigger aircraft to expand the carrier’s route network. In 1965 he approached Boeing’s President Bill Allen, asking him to design an aircraft that would ‘dwarf’ anything on the market.
The meeting concluded with the famous exchange: “If you build it, I’ll buy it,” said Trippe, to which Allen replied: “If you buy it, I’ll build it.” This set off a chain of events that resulted in the birth of the aircraft that revolutionised air travel, the Boeing 747.
Announced in 1984, the -400 was a major upgrade to the original aircraft. It was fitted with a two-crew glass cockpit, more efficient engines, additional fuel tanks and distinctive winglets, although the domestic 747-400D was not fitted with this feature. Other improvements included increased maximum take-off weight and range – it could fly non-stop for up to 7,670nm. Both passenger, freight and ‘combi’ variants were built, as well as domestic and extended range versions. It is also noteworthy that despite its long-haul capability, many ope…
