Customer Reviews

Boeing 707: Pioneer Jetliner (Jetliner History)

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Although I have read several books on the Boeing 707, something told me to give this one a try. And so I did. With confidence, I can say that this is the most detailed and insightful book on the Boeing 707 I have read. The depth of detail is breathtaking.

Most interesting is Rene Francillon's description of the many designs Boeing engineers conceived before building the prototype, the famous Dash-80. Early flights of this pioneering jetliner are described; I only wish the author had spent more time describing the flight in which Tex Johnson executed a Dutch roll, as that story always makes a fascinating read. Nevertheless, though I had read a great deal about the subject, this book showed me how much I still could learn.

Mr. Francillon then goes into detail of every 707 variant, commercial, government, and military. One really appreciates both the versitality of the 707 design and the ingenuity of the Boeing marketing team (the author holds a PhD in aviation economics). The text is highly readable and enjoyable, except for the one occasion when Mr. Francillon injected his political views vis-a-vis the destruction of MEA 707s and 720s at Beirut. I would have also loved to have seen a box on the Shanghai Y-10, a most unusual Chinese attempt to build a long-range jet airliner, using spare engine pylons and engines from the 707-3J6s it ordered in the 1970s.

The appendices at the end of the book give a detailed rundown on performance statistics, how many 707s and 720s each operator ordered, first flights and records, and hull losses. The only thing missing was a list of specimens preserved as museum pieces or "gate keepers," of which there are a handful - here's a recommendation for a second edition, which this otherwise outstanding book should see.

Dr. Francillon couldn't write a poor book if he tried. For those wanting an overview of the classic jetliner that laid the foundations of modern civil aviation, this is it. Detailed, not too technical, well-illustrated in color and with line drawings, it's a good balance, and represents good value for money.

Most appreciated were the comprehensive description of the differences between versions, both civil and military. There are specifications sufficiently detailed for most enthusiasts, and the book is not likely to be improved upon for a long time.

If I could have only one book on the 707, this would be my choice.