Commercial Aircraft Timeline

First DC-3 delivered to American Airlines

Jun 1, 1936

The first airliner was delivered to American Airliners, a Douglas DC-3. Still flying today, the DC-3 was the first successful airliner produced (Source) Link text

de Havilland Comet produced

Jan 22, 1952

The de Havilland Comet was the first jet-powered commercial aircraft produced, pioneering the modern day aircraft we fly on today. Source - http://plane-truth.com/comet.htm

Boeing 707 Produced

Oct 4, 1958

The Boeing 707 was the first commercially successful jet-powered passenger aircraft, preceding most modern-day aircraft.

Boeing 727 Introduced

Feb 1, 1962

The 727 was a successful aircraft mainly due to the fact that it had a high range, having a third engine. This made it fuel efficient and useful for long-range flight.

Hawker Siddeley HS-121 Trident Introduced

Apr 1, 1964

The HS-121 Trident was an influential airliner, pioneering the T-tail design and featuring sophisticated avionics.

Boeing 747 Introduced

Oct 4, 1969

The Boeing 747, commonly known as the "Jumbo Jet" was the first large airliner with more than one deck.

Airbus A320 Introduced

Apr 18, 1987

The Airbus A320 is arguably the most automated airliner built. Utilizing innovative avionics in the cockpit, the pilot's job is heavily simplified by computers.