The story
The Boeing 747SR is the jumbo jet nobody expected: a short-range 747 reinforced for the brutal cycle counts of Japan's domestic trunk routes. Fuel capacity went down, seat count went up — past 500 in some cabins — and JAL and ANA flew them packed between Tokyo, Osaka, and Sapporo until 2006.
One ex-Japan Airlines 747SR got a second life as NASA's Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, ferrying Space Shuttles across America on its back.
Quick answers
How do you identify a Boeing 747SR?
The type retired from airline service in 2006, and the last registered airframe is almost certainly stored or preserved. If a B74R ever paints on your radar, be suspicious — then be delighted.
What does a Boeing 747SR sound like?
Classic early-747 JT9D roar — a sound that left Japanese skies in 2006.
How fast is the Boeing 747SR?
Top speed is 490 kts (Mach 0.84 cruise).
How many passengers does the Boeing 747SR carry?
Up to 550. A typical layout is High-density domestic, 500+ seats.
How far can the Boeing 747SR fly?
Range is about Reduced by design — fuel traded for seats.
How big is the Boeing 747SR?
It is 231 ft 10 in long and 195 ft 8 in across the wings.
When did the Boeing 747SR first fly?
Its first flight was in 1973.
How many Boeing 747SRs have been built?
29 (7 SR + 20 -100BSR + 2 SUD) built.
How rare is a Boeing 747SR in Bogey?
RARE. A good day. Most spotters go weeks between sightings of something this rare. Your first Boeing 747SR catch is worth 250 points.
