Qantas Airways' First Boeing 707 Jet Journeys Across The U.S.

Los Angeles, CA - The first Boeing 707 jet airliner joined the Qantas fleet, the aircraft, previously known as City of Canberra, is set to make an historic return to Australia. With several stops, including Orlando, Florida, Los Angeles and Honolulu, the airplane is making history again as it commemorates these first jet flights.

Qantas Chairman Margaret Jackson and Minister for the Environment and Heritage Senator Ian Campbell said the first Qantas Boeing 707, the first jet aircraft sold outside of the United States, would make a celebratory return to Australia.

"I'm proud to announce that this Boeing 707, believed to be the last and oldest of its kind in operation, will make its permanent home at the Qantas Founders' Outback Museum in Longreach, Queensland," said Margaret Jackson.

In Orlando, Florida, the aircraft that was originally delivered to Qantas in 1959 and recently restored to airworthiness was met by Qantas Airways Global Goodwill Ambassador John Travolta, who owns and pilots the only other commercial B707 that remains in operation today. Upon its return to Australia, the aircraft will visit Brisbane before it arrives at its final destination in Longreach.

"Thanks to the funding of AUD$1M from the Australian Government and the efforts of some dedicated Australian aviation enthusiasts, both within and from outside Qantas, this aviation milestone is soon to come full circle," said Jackson. "This aircraft played an important role in our history, literally bringing the world closer to Australia." The Boeing 707 reduced the flight time between Sydney and London from 48 hours to 27 hours, which is comparable to today's trip of 23 hours." "The introduction of the Boeing 707 also started collaboration between Qantas and the Boeing Company on aircraft design, with Boeing's 747s, 767s, 737s, and 717s joining the Qantas fleet at different times, and the latest – the 787 Dreamliner – to be welcomed in 2008," Jackson added.

Ten retired Qantas engineers ensure the aircraft's airworthiness and an operating crew including Qantas Captain Murray R. Warfield and two first officers, are flying the aircraft to Australia. Ms. Jackson said the repatriation of this aircraft was made possible thanks to the Australian Government, Boeing Australia and Shell.

SOURCE: Qantas Airways