The correct answer is the Boeing 247. Early route flying after the First World War convinced airline operators that multiengined aircraft were preferable for flying long distances and across water, in terms of both economy and safety. However, while huge lumbering biplanes were still the vogue, the Boeing company designed the Model 247 as a new ten-passenger aircraft of revolutionary concept. The all-metal airframe was well streamlined, with low monoplane wings, a smooth oval semimonocoque fuselage, neatly cowled twin engines, and an enclosed cockpit for the pilots. The undercarriage was retractable, giving the aircraft a maximum speed of over 290 km/h (180 mph). This was far higher than the speed of contemporary biplane airliners, such as the Curtiss T-32 Condor II, Fokker F VII, and Ford Tri-motor that were in airline service at the time. Around seventy-five Model 247s were built for customers in the US and abroad. (Photo - National Aviation Museum.) The 247 was an immediate success and the first production aircraft were quickly followed by the refined Model 247D. But destiny still held further success for the airliner. Many great aircraft built between the wars were evolved to take part in air races; such contests were also excellent proving grounds for new or established production types. So, when the MacRobertson Race from England to Australia was organized in 1934, a Boeing Model 247D was entered. Flown by Col. Roscoe Turner and Clyde Pangbourne, it gained second place in the transport section, behind its great rival the DC-2.
The correct answer was submitted by intruder38, and he is therefore the winner of Trivia Series #13. Congratulations to you, Intruder38, well done!
The final standingsfor Series #13: PontiacRich is second with 10 correct, jeaton, bondoman and ViperhastheLead are tied for second with 9 correct. wayne baker is in 4th with 8 correct. Trivia Series #14 will start tomorrow and thanks to all who participate (and send me great extra info!)
Brian [C):-)]