Archive of 46 original vernacular photographs of a model airliner in wind tunnel tests

N.p.: N.p., 1968. Archive of 46 vintage vernacular photographs of a model airliner in wind tunnel tests, circa 1967-1968. All photographs with an internal reference number, printed from the negative, on the lower right of the image.

The photographs on offer are almost certainly internally-produced reference photographs taken during the development of Boeing's 747 airliner, and were likely taken at Boeing's Seattle wind tunnel model shop.

Development of the world's first twin-aisle airliner, Boeing's 747, began in 1965 under the supervision of Malcolm T. Stamper, then head of Boeing's turbine division (and later Boeing's longest serving president). Engineer Joe Sutter, commonly known as "the father of the 747," headed the design team, and in 1966, aerospace manufacturer Pratt and Whitney developed the JT9D, the first high-bypass-ratio turbofan engine powerful enough for the wide-body airliner. The first 747 was rolled out of Boeing's custom-built Everett Plant on September 20, 1968, and on February 9, 1969, the first flight took place. The airliner was certified in December of 1969, and entered service with Pan Am Airlines on January 22, 1970.

5 x 4 inches. Remnants of cello tape on the margins of the rectos, else Near Fine.