Boeing Monomail facts for kids
The Boeing Model 200 Monomail was a special airplane built in the United States by Boeing in the 1930s. It was mostly used to carry mail. Its first flight was on May 6, 1930.
Unlike older planes that had two sets of wings (called biplanes), the Monomail was a monoplane, meaning it had only one strong wing. This wing was designed so it didn't need extra support wires. Also, its landing wheels could be pulled up into the plane after takeoff, which helped it fly faster. Only one Model 200 was first made for the US Army to test. Later, this plane started flying mail routes, like from San Francisco to Chicago.
A slightly different version, called the Model 221, was also built. This plane was made 8 inches longer. This change allowed it to carry a few passengers, but it meant less space for mail. The Model 221 first flew on August 18, 1930.
The Boeing Monomail faced a challenge because there weren't powerful enough engines available when it was designed. By the time better engines were ready, newer and more advanced planes had already been developed. One of these was the Boeing 247, which quickly became more popular than the Monomail.
Quick facts for kids Model 200 and 221 Monomail |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| A United Airlines Model 221 | |
| Role | Airliner |
| Manufacturer | Boeing |
| First flight | 6 May 1930 |
| Retired | 1933 |
| Status | Retired |
| Primary user | United Airlines |
| Number built | 2 |
| Developed into | Boeing YB-9 |
Contents
Different Types of Monomail
The Monomail came in a few different versions:
- Model 200: This was the original mailplane. Only one of these was built.
- Model 221: This version was a mailplane that could also carry up to six passengers. Only one of these was built too.
- Model 221A: This name was given to the Model 200 and 221 after they were changed to carry passengers as airliners.
Who Used the Monomail?
The Monomail was mainly used in the United States by:
Monomail Details (Model 221)
General characteristics
- Crew: One pilot
- Capacity: 6 passengers
Performance
Images for kids
-
Model 221 of United Airlines
See also
In Spanish: Boeing 200/221 Monomail para niños
