B56

B56 is a model of the Boeing 707 jet airliner, developed during the late 1950s and early 1960s as part of Boeing’s efforts to expand its commercial aircraft lineup. The B56 was essentially a stretched and modified version of the earlier Boeing 367-80, a prototype and development aircraft for the 707 series. It featured an extended fuselage, allowing for increased passenger capacity and cargo space compared to the original 707-120 model.

The B56 was primarily used by Boeing for testing and demonstration purposes. It was equipped with advanced avionics, engines, and systems to evaluate new technologies and configurations. The aircraft was also used to showcase the capabilities of the 707 series to potential customers, playing a key role in the commercialization of jet air travel.

The B56 was not a production model but served as a critical testbed for various modifications and upgrades. It was later used in the development of the Boeing 727, which incorporated many of the lessons learned from the B56’s testing. The aircraft was retired from service in the 1970s after fulfilling its role in aircraft research and demonstration. Today, it is preserved in aviation museums, highlighting its significance in the history of commercial aviation.