The Boeing Stratoliner 307: A Marvel of Aviation Technology
In collaboration with Airplane Heaven, the Microsoft Flight Simulator team proudly presents the newest addition to our Local Legend series – The Boeing Stratoliner 307. Back in the late 1930s, Boeing amazed the world with the introduction of the Stratoliner 307, a shining symbol of aviation progress and innovation. Born during the Golden Age of Flight, this airliner was a testament to the hard work and dedication of Boeing engineers.
Revolutionizing Air Travel
The Stratoliner 307 was a major milestone in the history of aviation. It was the world’s first high-altitude airliner, capable of operating up to 20,000 feet above sea level. This was made possible by its unique pressurized cabin, an engineering breakthrough at the time. The aircraft made its maiden flight on December 31, 1938, and entered regular service on July 4, 1940. Throughout its production, Boeing manufactured a total of ten Stratoliners.
A Design Built for Altitude
Boeing embarked on the development of the 307 in response to the airline industry’s demand for an aircraft that could smoothly traverse high altitudes and adverse weather conditions, like the Rocky Mountains’ passes. Based on the successful B-17C bomber, the 307 inherited its aerodynamic performance and long-duration flight capabilities. While the wings, engines, engine configuration, empennage, and landing gear were adopted from the bomber, the fuselage received a circular cross-section design, enabling comfortable seating configurations and pressurization for high-altitude flight.
Innovation and Luxury
The Stratoliner 307 was mainly constructed using aluminum alloy and employed stressed-skin engineering to ensure strength, flexibility, and cabin pressurization at altitude. It had room for up to 33 passengers and a crew of five, including a flight engineer – a position that was innovative for its time. The 307 utilized engine-driven pumps to maintain cabin pressurization, allowing it to operate at altitudes up to 20,000 feet while keeping the interior pressure equivalent to that of 8,000 feet. The cabin itself boasted sleeper berths, a galley, a lavatory, a dressing room, and comfortable reclining seats. An embodiment of luxury, the Stratoliner offered an experience akin to ocean liner voyages.
A Legacy Preserved
Today, only one of the original ten Stratoliners remains intact – the “Clipper Flying Cloud,” originally flown by Pan Am. After meticulous restoration by 30 Boeing volunteers in the 1990s, it found its permanent home at the Smithsonian’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Washington, D.C.
Take to the Skies
The Boeing 307 Stratoliner is a captivating piece of aviation history, and you can now experience the thrill for yourself. With its four stunning liveries – Boeing Delivery, Emerald Harbor, WorldTravel, and AREA (Colombian) – the Stratoliner awaits you in the Microsoft Flight Simulator. Step inside, power up the systems, start the engines, and prepare for an incredible journey through the skies. The Boeing Stratoliner 307 can be yours today for just $14.99. Adventure beckons!