747SP

The Boeing 747SP is a wide-body jet airliner developed as a shorter, longer-range variant of the Boeing 747-100. The SP designation stands for Special Performance. It was developed in response to a request from Pan American World Airways (Pan Am) for an aircraft that could fly longer distances than the original 747 and also operate at high-altitude airports.

To achieve the desired range and performance, Boeing shortened the 747SP's fuselage by 47 feet (14.3 meters) compared to the 747-100. This reduction in length, combined with other modifications, allowed for a higher maximum takeoff weight and improved climb performance. The tail section was also modified with a taller vertical stabilizer and rudder to compensate for the aerodynamic changes.

The 747SP first flew on July 4, 1975, and entered service with Pan Am in 1976. It was popular with airlines that required long-haul capabilities and the ability to operate from challenging airports. A total of 45 747SPs were produced. While many were used for passenger service, some were later converted for cargo or special missions, including use as a stratospheric observatory for astronomical research.

The 747SP was known for its distinctive short fuselage and powerful engines, which gave it excellent performance characteristics. Its operational life as a passenger airliner gradually declined as newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft entered service, but some continued to fly in specialized roles for many years.