The idea for The 747SP came from a joint request between Pan American World Airways and Iran Air who were looking for a high capacity airliner with enough range to cover Pan Am's New York-Middle Eastern routes and Iran Air's planned Tehran-New York route. The Tehran-New York route when launched was the longest nonstop commercial flight in the world. The 747SP is 48 feet 4 inches (14.7 m) shorter than the 747-100. Except for the planned 747-8, the SP is the only 747 with a fuselage of modified length. Fuselage sections were eliminated fore and aft of the wing, and the center section of the fuselage was redesigned. Single-slotted flaps replaced the complex triple-slotted Fowler flaps of the 100 series.[112] The under-wing "canoes", which housed the flap mechanisms on full-size 747s, were eliminated entirely on the SP. The 747SP, compared to earlier variants, had a tapering of the aft upper fuselage into the empennage, a double-hinged rudder, and longer vertical and horizontal stabilizers.
The 747SP was granted a supplemental certificate on 4 February 1976 and entered service with Pan American, the launch customer and Iran Air, that same year. The aircraft was chosen by airlines wishing to serve major airports with short runways.
A total of forty-five 747SPs were built. The 44th 747SP was delivered on 30 August 1982. Boeing re-opened the 747SP production line to build one last 747SP five years later in 1987 for an order by the United Arab Emirates government.[113] As of August 2007, 17 Boeing 747SP aircraft were in service with Iran Air (3), Saudi Arabian Airlines, Syrian Arab Airlines (2) and as executive versions. NASA's Dryden Flight Research Center has one modified for the SOFIA experiment.
The Boeing 747-100SP, also known as the Special Performance variant, is a remarkable aircraft that holds a significant place in aviation history. Introduced in the 1970s, the 747-100SP was specifically designed to cater to the needs of airlines that required a long-range aircraft capable of operating on routes with shorter runways.
One of the standout features of the 747-100SP is its shortened fuselage, which sets it apart from other variants of the 747. This modification significantly reduced the overall length of the aircraft, making it able to take off and land on runways that were too short for other wide-body aircraft. This adaptability allowed airlines to connect to destinations that were previously inaccessible due to runway limitations.
In addition to its shortened fuselage, the 747-100SP boasted improved engines and increased fuel capacity. These enhancements enabled the aircraft to fly longer distances than its predecessors, making it an ideal choice for airlines operating long-haul routes to destinations with challenging runway conditions. The ability to reach farther destinations while maintaining excellent performance on shorter runways made the 747-100SP a highly sought-after aircraft.
Despite its unique capabilities and impressive performance, the 747-100SP had limited commercial success, with only a small number of aircraft produced. However, it found a niche application as a VIP transport for governments and as a platform for scientific research. Its versatility and reliability made it a popular choice for government officials and scientists who required long-range transportation with the ability to reach remote locations worldwide.
Even though the production of the 747-100SP was limited, its impact on aviation history cannot be overstated. The aircraft remains a symbol of engineering excellence and innovation, showcasing the capabilities of Boeing as a pioneer in the aviation industry. Its unique design and adaptability continue to inspire awe and admiration among aviation enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Today, while newer and more advanced aircraft have taken over the skies, the legacy of the 747-100SP lives on. Its contributions to the aviation industry and its role in expanding global connectivity will always be remembered. The 747-100SP stands as a testament to the remarkable engineering achievements of its time, leaving an indelible mark on the history of aviation.