Boeing honors Joe Sutter, father of the 747, with custom paint scheme and dedicated building

Boeing honors Joe Sutter, father of the 747, with aircraft models in a custom paint scheme and a dedicated engineering building at Boeing’s Everett facility.

Sutter’s Boeing career spanned four years. After his retirement in 1986, he continued to guide design decisions as a consultant. In addition to the 747, he has played a pivotal role in designing the 707, 727, and 737 aircraft.

With Sutter’s contributions to not only Boeing, but to aviation, it was fitting to commemorate his achievements with a one of a kind 747 model.

Boeing provided the concept and colors for a custom livery. PacMin’s team then translated the idea from a 2D computer rendering into a custom desktop model.

The 1/100 scale custom model measures 30” (76.2 cm) long with a 27” (68.6 cm) wingspan. A matching 1/40 scale exhibit model, stretching over 6’ (1.8 m) long, was also produced.

The custom paint scheme features Sutter’s portrait when the 747 was first introduced on one side, and a current photograph of Sutter on the other side of the aircraft.

During a VIP ceremony and dedication of the Joe Sutter Engineering Building on May 23, Boeing’s team presented both models to Sutter.

The exhibit model also features a nameplate with a special dedication:

“Retired Boeing Executive Vice President Joseph F. “Joe” Sutter is one of history’s great airplane designers. During the late 1960s, Sutter led “The Incredibles,” the team that successfully created the Boeing 747. This airplane was so large that a new factory had to be specially built. Sutter and his engineering team were among the first occupants of the Everett site.”

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Update 2016: Joe Sutter passed away at the age of 95 in 2016. His contributions aviation and the 747 program helped shaped international travel as we enjoy it today.