Celebrating 100 Years of Boeing, from the 707 to the 787
From the 737 MAX popping up at Farnborough to the company's 100th birthday celebration in Seattle, it's been a very busy few days for Boeing. And we've been there for all of it. After a fantastic week at the Farnborough Air Show, I caught a Delta flight to Seattle for Boeing's Centennial celebration, just south of the city.
As part of the festivities, the company lined up its entire 7-Series of airliners, from the 707 to the 787 Dreamliner, and entertained employees with executive addresses (including one from CEO Dennis Muilenburg, who I spotted meeting with David Cameron a few days before) and free visits to the Museum of Flight.
Boeing 7-Series Lineup
The highlight for me was having a chance to check out Boeing's entire 7-Series collection up close. I'll run through each of the planes below.
First up is the Omega Tanker 707, which is currently used for aerial refueling.
Next is a Delta 717, which the airline typically operates on shorter Delta Shuttle routes, such as New York to Boston.
Then a United 727, which is the first 727 Boeing manufactured. It was delivered to United back in 1964.
I also spotted an American Airlines 727, which will soon head to its new home at the National Airline History Museum in Kansas City, Missouri.
Then there's an Alaska Airlines 737, which is decked out in Boeing's Centennial livery. The 737 is Boeing's most prolific plane to date.
I also spotted a 737 MAX in flight, having just departed Boeing Field.
After that there's the Queen of the Skies, the 747, represented by a Cathay Pacific Cargo 747-8.
A Lufthansa 747 passed over the field as well, just before the CEO's address.
Moving on, United made a second appearance with its 757-200.
A Delta 757 flew overhead during the afternoon as well.
Meanwhile, the next 7-Series plane is represented by a FedEx 767 — not exactly the most exciting livery, but FedEx is an important Boeing customer.
Then, nearly all the way at the back is a yet-to-be-delivered Emirates 777-300ER.
And an Emirates 777 in flight, which was coming in to land at SEA.
And last but certainly not least is the same brand-new ANA 787-9 Dreamliner that made an appearance just a few days before at the Farnborough Air Show.
Museum of Flight
Home to Boeing's Centennial celebration, the Museum of Flight is located at King County International Airport, also known as Boeing Field.
Visitors can tour a variety of planes, including a version of Air Force One based on the Boeing 707.
Inside, you'll find a variety of aircraft, including the forward section of a USAir (the former name of US Airways) 737.
There's also the only remaining M-21, a variation of the CIA's Lockheed A-12 reconnaissance aircraft.
The museum even has its very own Dreamliner — the third model manufactured by Boeing, which wasn't suitable for sale to an airline.
During Boeing's Centennial, there was also an opportunity to see the latest United livery alongside one from (many) years past.
One of the museum's centerpieces is Boeing's "Red Barn" — the original manufacturing plant.
The Museum of Flight is open daily from 9:00am until 5:00pm, with adult tickets available for $21 online or $23 at the door. You can also pre-book a variety of tours for an additional fee.
What's your favorite Boeing airplane?
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