One of the most popular commercial aircraft in the world is the Boeing 737. But have you ever pondered where the name came from? The solution is really fairly easy. Actually, Boeing simply uses the number 737 as a numerical identifier for its many aircraft models. The 7 and 3 in the first two numerals denote that the aircraft is a member of the 77 family of aircraft, which also includes the 747, 757, 767, and 777. The model’s design order is simply indicated by the final numeral, 7.
In the field of aviation, the letter “P” is frequently used to denote “performance.” For instance, the speed, altitude, range, and payload capacity of an aircraft can all be used to determine its performance. In certain circumstances, the letter “P” may also stand for “passenger,” like in the instance of the Boeing 747SP, which was created especially for the high-capacity transport of passengers. What does the letter C mean in aviation?
Depending on the situation, the letter “C” in aviation can mean many things. In other circumstances, it could mean “cargo,” like in the case of the Boeing 747-400F, a freighter variant of the well-known passenger aircraft. In other instances, it could mean “convertible,” as in the case of the Boeing 737-700C, a modified version of the 737 that can be easily transformed from a passenger configuration to a cargo configuration.
Like many other airlines, British Airways names some of its aircraft. However, not every aircraft has a name, and those that do are typically the airline’s newest aircraft or aircraft with noteworthy histories. For instance, the Boeing 747 is known as “The Queen of the Skies,” and it is one of British Airways’ flagship aircraft.
Although some pilots do name their aircraft, it’s not a typical practice among pilots of commercial airlines. Typically, pilots will refer to their aircraft by either their registration number or just “the aircraft.” To personalize and express affection for their aircraft, some private pilots or pilots who own their own aircraft may give their aircraft names. The “Spirit of St. Louis” and “Glamorous Glennis,” two named aircraft flown by renowned aviator Charles Lindbergh, are examples.