The Mighty 747: Australia's Queen of the Skies

The Boeing 747, a watershed in aviation technology, has dramatically changed air travel and is scheduled to be decommissioned around the world. Jim Eames, bestselling author of The Flying Kangaroo and Courage in the Skies, recounts the high points of its life at Qantas, including the uplift out of Darwin after Cyclone Tracy, the return of the Diggers to Gallipoli, and the evacuation of Australians from Wuhan. He also reveals the near misses and how close we have come to disaster on several occasions. The book is woven with the humor and nostalgia of the people at Qantas who sold the 747 to Australia and made it work on the ground and in the air.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 01 November 2022
Publisher: Allen & Unwin

the 747,Eames tells the story of the plane s development,from its early days as a military transport to its role as a commercial jetliner. He also shares stories of the people who worked on the plane,from the engineers who designed it to the pilots who flew it.
The Boeing 747, a symbol of global aviation, has touched the lives of millions of people worldwide. From its inaugural Qantas flight in 1971 to its scheduled decommissioning in the coming years, the 747 has been a pivotal aircraft in shaping air travel. In this captivating book, bestselling author Jim Eames delves into the history, technology, and remarkable stories of the 747.

The 747, a technological marvel, revolutionized air travel with its spacious interiors, advanced engines, and long-range capabilities. It played a crucial role in connecting people from different parts of the world, enabling them to travel for work, leisure, and emergencies. For many Australians, the 747 was their first experience of international travel, leaving a lasting impression on their lives.

At Qantas, the 747 was a beloved aircraft that served the airline for decades. From its deployment in Darwin after Cyclone Tracy to the return of the Diggers to Gallipoli and the evacuation of Australians from Wuhan, the 747 was a symbol of resilience and solidarity. Qantas employees, known as "747ers," took pride in operating and maintaining these iconic planes, ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers.

The 747 came in various configurations, including the 747-400, which set a world distance record from London to Sydney. Its versatility and reliability made it a favorite among airlines and passengers alike. However, the 747 also faced near-misses and accidents, highlighting the importance of safety measures and continuous improvement in aviation technology.

The farewell of the 747 to Australia in 2020 marked a significant milestone in aviation history. The plane's departure from Australian skies was a poignant moment for many, symbolizing the end of an era. Jim Eames, in his book, pays tribute to the 747 and the people who made it a success. He shares personal anecdotes, behind-the-scenes stories, and the emotional impact the 747 had on passengers and employees alike.

The Mighty 747: The Australian Story is not just a history of the plane but also a celebration of the people who made it work. Jim Eames' storytelling style is engaging and relatable, bringing the reader into the world of aviation and the Qantas culture. The book is filled with social history, wry anecdotes, and nostalgia, making it a must-read for aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone who has been touched by the magic of flight.

In conclusion, The Mighty 747: The Australian Story by Jim Eames is a captivating tribute to the Boeing 747, the plane that transformed air travel and touched the lives of millions. Through his storytelling, Eames captures the essence of the 747's legacy, from its technological advancements to its role in shaping global connectivity. This book is a must-read for aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone who has been inspired by the magic of flight.

Weight: 395g
Dimension: 235 x 155 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781760877118