The Boeing 727 was the first trijet ever introduced into commercial service. Due to its versatility and reliability it was the best-selling airliner in the world during the first 30 years of jet transport service. In total, 1.831 aircraft were deliverd during a production period running from the 1960s to August 1984. Finally, in 1991 the first built 727 made its last flight on behalf of United Airlines. It was then donated to the Museum of Flight in Seattle.

After its first appearance the aircraft became a real hit with flight crews and passengers due to its jet luxury it provided on shorter routes. The aircraft introduced triple-slotted trailing edge flaps that made lower landing and take-off speeds possible thus being able to accomodate smaller airports.

The Boeing 727-200 was introduced in 1967 and had 20-foot longer fuselage compared to the 727-100 version and an increased gross weight. The extended fuselage can accomodate up to 189 passengers in an all economy lay-out. In total, 1.245 Boeing 727-200s were delivered in all its variations. In 1971 the Boeing 727-200 Advanced was launched which had a greater fuel capacity, more powerful engines and several structural improvements. Later improvements of the 727 included another gross weight increase to a maximum of 191.000 pounds for the Advanced version. In 1972, another gross weight increase was accomplished after which it highest gross weight was eventually raised to 210.000 pounds.