How to Identify a 727

The medium-range 727 is perhaps the most distinctive of Boeing's commercial aircraft. More than 1,800 of the hardworking 727s were built, and nearly 1,500 remain in service.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Electronic Personal Organizers
• Film
• Light Meter
• Cameras
• Cameras
• Internet Access
• Computers
• Camera Bags
• Camcorders
• telephoto or "long lens"
• Flying Lessons
• SLR Camera
• Camera Accessories
• Camera Tripod
• Aircraft Band Scanner
• Air & Space Subscriptions
• Aviation Illustrated Magazine
• Flying Magazines
• Telescopes

1. Look for a three-engine airliner.

2. Note that all three engines are mounted at the rear of the fuselage.

3. Remember that other modern, three-engine jet transports have engines mounted under each wing.

4. Note the mid-engine on the 727. The intake is mounted at the base of the tail along the top of the fuselage.

5. Remember, the middle engine is mounted in the fuselage with the exhaust exiting directly from the point of the tail.

6. Notice the horizontal stabilizer mounted at the top of the vertical stabilizer.

Tips & Warnings

• Infamous air pirate D.B. Cooper parachuted from a 727 rear stairwell over the Pacific Northwest.
• The 727 was manufactured in models ranging in gross weight from 170,000 to 210,000 pounds. Special leading and trailing edge flaps make takeoffs and landings from smaller airports possible.
• The 727 cruises at an altitude of between 30,000 to 40,000 feet at approximately 600 mph and can carry up to 189 passengers in some configurations.
• Cruise the Internet and learn more about plane watching.
• Many plane buffs go on to take private flying lessons.
• Safety first - obey all airport regulations.