This most recognized passenger airliner of all time, the Boeing 747 has consistently set new standards since its introduction in 1970. During this period the wide tange of developments and vaiants has seen frieghter, combined freightpassenger, long-range, increased capacity, and military versions. Here, Martin Bowman tells the fascinating story of the aricragt that can truly be said to have heralded a new era of international air travel.