Boeing 747-100/200 (Shuttle Carrier Aircraft)

05 Feb 2026 · © Unknown

The aircraft on top is a full-scale Shuttle replica named 'Independence,' not an actual flown orbiter, but this 747 (N905NA) did, in fact, ferry real Space Shuttles for NASA.

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Aircraft

747-100/200 (Shuttle Carrier Aircraft) B742

NASA 'Shuttle Carrier Aircraft' classic livery

Airline

NASA

Manufacturer

Boeing

Insights

Aviation History

The Boeing 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft (SCA) were highly modified 747-100 and 747-100SR airframes used by NASA to transport Space Shuttles between locations through the air. Iconic in both aviation and space history.

Fleet Rarity

Only two Boeing 747 SCAs were ever built and flew for NASA.

Record Flights

Flew NASA's Space Shuttle orbiters between landing sites and the Kennedy Space Center; participated in some of the longest and most publicized ferry flights in aviation history.

Safety & Events

Notable for flying the very first Approach and Landing Tests for NASA's Shuttle program with the prototype Enterprise orbiter. Ferried shuttles post-mission and on special tours.

Future Outlook

This SCA, N905NA, is preserved on public display at Space Center Houston, carrying a replica of the ‘Independence’ Shuttle.

Specifications

Pratt & Whitney JT9D

Engine

59.6 m

Wingspan

70.6 m

Length

9,800 km

Range

885 km/h

Speed

Usually 0 passengers; configured for shuttle ferry missions

Capacity

333,400 kg

MTOW

19.3 m (w/o shuttle)

Height

206 kN (46,500 lbf) each (x4)

Thrust

ICAO Chapter 2 (historical jet)

Noise

Displayed Shuttle is a replica, but the 747 is an authentic Shuttle Carrier Aircraft.