How to Identify a 747

Boeing launched the jumbo-jet era when the first 747 rolled off the assembly line more than 30 years ago. Pan American World Airways, the storied operator of flying boats to exotic islands, ordered the first 25 produced and put the giants to work on international routes.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

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

1. Remember, a 747 is likely to be the largest airplane at any airport.

2. Look at the forward portion of the fuselage, which is not perfectly cylindrical. A 747 has a bulging extension trailing back from the cockpit area.

3. Remember that the extension is longer on the current 747-400 than on earlier models.

4. Check the wingtips. Small vertical elements at the wingtips identify the 747-400.

5. Look for swept-back wings, each with two jet engines underslung.

6. Note that the turbofan jet engines are much larger at the intake than at the exhaust. Each intake measures 8 feet, 6 inches.

7. Watch for the freighter version of Boeing's behemoth. You'll see no passenger windows. The entire nose element can swing up to allow unencumbered access to the cargo hold.

Tips & Warnings

• A specially equipped 747 serves as Air Force One.
• A 747 is gigantic. The tip of the vertical element of the tail is as tall as a six-story building.
• The 747 design has evolved tremendously in 30 years, becoming quieter and more fuel-efficient. A two-pilot crew operates the giant from a digital cockpit to carry more than 400 passengers distances of more than 8,000 miles.
• Be sure to obey all safety regulations as you enjoy a day at the airport plane watching. Remember to take along your camera equipment, binoculars and a telescope, or an aircraft band scanner.

on 11/22/2005 It's not commonly known, but the reason for the bulge is that originally the plane was designed for passengers to board through the nose. However, retrofitting airports to fit this unique boarding arrangement proved too much of a hassle, but the double-deck forward section remained.