1947. The maiden flight of the Stratocruiser

 

Boeing Aircraft Co.'s first Stratocruiser shown at takeoff on its maiden flight (AVIATION WEEK, July 14 | 1947). With gross takeoff weight of 100,000 lb.-35,000 lb. less than maximum—plane was airborne after run of 1,400 ft. On first flight, it stayed aloft for 1 hr., 24 min., then landed and by using reversible-pitch propellers, was brought to a stop after a roll of 1,200 ft.