The Boeing Story Part VI

The Boeing Company, of Seattle, Washington, had previously been successful with a line of commercial airliners, and their Boeing 767 was no exception to this policy. Originally designed during the late 1970's, the 767 was a product of need for an international airliner; one that was fuel efficient.

Classified as a medium range, mid-size, wide-body airliner, the 767 can been seen operating on six continents of the world, for a multitude of airlines. Initially the 767 was offered in one model, the 767-200, launched in 1978. This model enabled airlines to accommodate 181 passengers in a three-class configuration, or up to a maximum of 255, in all economy seating with up to eight abreast seating. With a range of over 5,000 miles, the 767-200 allowed airlines to offer transatlantic service for a lower cost. The first 767-200 flew in 1981 and entered service with United Airlines early in 1982. After this initial aircraft, the 767-200 was modified to extend the range of the aircraft, and would be known as the 767-200ER. This model enabled airlines to fly up over 6,500 miles, allowing for some transpacific flights. The first 767-200ER was delivered to El Al Israel Airlines in 1984. Just under 250 767-200's have been ordered to date.

After the initial 767 was offered, airlines wanted the same type airliner with more range and passenger capacity. Boeing countered this desire with the 767-300, identical to the 767-200 except for a lengthening of 20 feet, to 179 feet long. This stretch allowed for a three-class configuration of 218 passengers or a maximum of 351 in all economy seating. The new model had similar range of the 767-200, allowing for transatlantic routes, as well as many transcontinental routes. Also offered was the 767-300ER, similar in range to the 767-200ER, allowing for transpacific routes. Also based upon the 767-300 is a newly offered freighter, which to date has been ordered by UPS and DHL cargo airlines.

The last model of the 767 was offered over 10 year later than its previous model. The 767-400ER was designed for Delta and Continental Airlines, in order to replace older airliners in their fleets. The 767-400ER is similar to the 767-300, except lengthened another 21 feet, allowing for a three-class configuration of 245 passengers, or a maximum of 375. The 767-400ER has a range of over 5,500 miles, allowing for most transatlantic flights, as well as many transpacific flights.

The Boeing Company has also used the 767 in the military market. Some 767's are used as airborne radar stations, giving early warning of incoming enemy aircraft to the Japan Self-Defense Force. Also developed off the 767 is a proposed tanker, which would replace the KC-135, based off the Boeing 707. It is currently in completion, and if it would win, would allow the 767 to remain in production for many years to come.

The Boeing 767 has allowed for airlines across the world to offer more flights, to more destinations that previously possible. The 767 introduced new interiors, new in-flight entertainment and many other passenger comforts that are taken for granted by passengers today.