PRE-ORDER the captivating history of the iconic, world-class Jumbo Jet, written by former 747 pilot Scott Bateman.

Nothing like Boeing's 747 had ever been seen before. Everything about it was exceptional. When it emerged from the Boeing factory in 1968, the immense size of the jet made clear the vision, boldness, and engineering achievement required to build it. When the airliner took to the skies for the first time early the following year, it was the largest, heaviest, most powerful, and most ambitious airliner ever to fly. It would go on to become an icon, described by Bill Gates as “the world’s first worldwide web” because of how it connected us, breaking down barriers between people and countries.

But Boeing's masterpiece didn’t just revolutionize commercial air travel. In over half a century since that historic first flight, the record-breaking 747 has served Presidents as Air Force One, explored the origins of the universe for NASA, fired airborne lasers, launched space rockets, carried impossible loads, performed dramatic rescues, fought forest fires, and survived extraordinary close calls to bring her passengers home safely.

Drawing on new interviews, privileged access to Boeing's extensive archive, and his own personal experience, former 747 pilot Scott Bateman brings to life the extraordinary story of the 'Queen of the Skies' like never before.

Pages: 368, Dimensions: 16.3x16.3cm