What a difference between Boeing of today vs 100 years ago

[MountainDude]

It's embarrassing how low Boeing has sunk due to years of mismanagement.
It is refreshing to see the article about the revolutionary Boeing 247 from almost 100 years ago:

Boeing 247 - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

- One of the first aircraft to incorporate all-metal (anodized aluminum) semimonocoque construction, a fully cantilevered wing, retractable landing gear, control surface trim tabs, an autopilot, and de-icing boots for the wings and tail.
- It was faster than the best U.S. fighter of its day
- The low landing speed of 62 mph (100 km/h) avoided the need for flaps
- It could fly on one engine up to 11,500 ft (3,500 m) at maximum gross weight
- Boeing incorporated design elements to enhance passenger comfort, such as the thermostat controlled, air conditioned, and noise-proofed cabin.

 

[MBDiagMan]

The twenties and thirties probably saw more aviation innovation and progress than any other twenty year period. That said, of course the forties and fifties brought on the jet age. The 247 was one of the important stepping stones, but the DC3 took it to the next level.

Personally, of the innovative aircraft of that period, I consider the B17 to be a much more significant Boeing accomplishment.

To your point though, if I understand it correctly, Boeing as a company, was definitely on the upswing, climbing into the stratosphere as compared to todays diving straight down at about 10,000 FPM.

 

[AV8R_87]

Replace Boeing with almost any other big aviation company. They're all run by cardboard MBAs with predictable results.

 

[Klaus M]

This has been a favorite picture on my screen saver rotation for the past 15 years.