Business Wars Boeing vs Airbus - Get Your Wings | 1
Jan 6, 2020
The podcast dives into the thrilling era of the 1950s jet age, starting with the catastrophic crash of the De Havilland Comet that shook the aviation world. It highlights how Boeing seized the moment to dominate the civilian aircraft market after the Comet's demise. Listeners learn about the fierce competition that birthed the Boeing 707 and the struggles of European manufacturers leading to the creation of Airbus. The narrative captures the ambitions, rivalries, and the transformative events that reshaped commercial aviation.
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Comet Disaster
- In 1954, fisherman Giovanni DiMarco witnessed the crash of Flight 781, a de Havilland Comet.
- This event marked a turning point in aviation history, exposing the issue of metal fatigue and leading to Boeing's rise.
707 Debut
- Boeing president Bill Allen showcased the 707 with risky maneuvers by test pilot Tex Johnston.
- This impressed airline executives, although Allen was initially worried about the stunt.
Pan Am's Influence
- Pan Am founder Juan Tripp initially ordered 707s but pushed for design changes to accommodate more passengers and transatlantic flights.
- Boeing eventually agreed, leading to the first 707 passenger flight from New York to Paris in 1958.