Re-Engined 707's Never Caught On--Why?
 

Once again, from the "Legends Of The Air" series, a question. The book says that the CFM-56 re-engine program absolutely transformed the DC-8. Delta, United & Air Canada ordered more than a few. Why, do you suppose, didn't the CFM-56 catch on with the 707 and its users?

The 707 could not be stretched without major redesign (unlike the DC8) and the airframe was not as long lived...except for the military of course...where budgets are not as important.

411A

Thanks for the reply. I live just about in line with 5 & 23 in Buffalo. I see a lot of C-135's (re-engined & JT-3D models) doing circuits & bumps. Even after all these years, it's still a great looking jet.

Yes it is, avialuver33...quite classic lines. It was the first jet airliner that I flew, very fond memories.

Like 411A says, it's more to do with the fuselage length. Only a very few short body DC-8's were converted, most were -61's and -63's , which was where you could make the big savings (40% less fuel burn, wasn't it???) The 707 was never available with that lovely long fuselage.

Basically, it gave you a 757 without having to spend 757 money. One 707 did get converted (they called it the -700), last I heard the Moroccan Govt had it.

That particular aircraft was the 'Testbed' for CFM re-engining and was actually converted back to JT3 power before going to the Moroccan Govt. Flight...