IATA B72ICAO B720

Boeing 720B

Boeing

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Lightweight 707 variant optimized for shorter domestic routes.

First flight

1959

Category

Narrow-body jet

Seating

140–149 passengers (typical)

Range

6,690 km

Engines

4× Pratt & Whitney JT3D turbofan engines

Status

Retired

The Boeing 720 (originally designated 707-020) was developed as a lighter, shorter-range derivative of the Boeing 707, intended for domestic and shorter-range international routes. It featured a modified wing with full-span leading-edge slats and reduced structural weight compared to the standard 707, improving performance on shorter sectors. The 720B designation refers to aircraft retrofitted or delivered with turbofan engines, specifically the Pratt & Whitney JT3D, replacing the earlier turbojet powerplants. This upgrade significantly improved fuel efficiency, range, and reduced noise levels, extending the aircraft's commercial viability. The Boeing 720 and 720B served numerous airlines through the 1960s and 1970s before being gradually retired as more modern and fuel-efficient aircraft became available. A total of 154 Boeing 720/720B aircraft were built, with production ending in 1967.

Notable operators

Major operators included United Air Lines, American Airlines, Eastern Air Lines, Pakistan International Airlines, and Ethiopian Airlines.

Notable facts

›Originally designated the Boeing 707-020 before being rebranded as the 720 to distinguish it from the longer-range 707.
›Featured a modified wing with full-span leading-edge slats for better low-speed performance.
›The 720B conversion introduced Pratt & Whitney JT3D turbofans, improving fuel efficiency significantly.
›A total of 154 Boeing 720 and 720B aircraft were produced between 1959 and 1967.
›The type was notably used in several dramatic crash tests and aviation safety research programs after retirement.