Originally Posted by
Atar_9K
And a testament to that design's longevity and influence that a derivative is still in production and widespread service, 73 years after the original design was finalized. Its form around the cockpit was recognizable in every airliner until B787 returned to the Comet/Caravelle aesthetic. 70 years ago its test pilot Tex Johnston (who also was a test pilot for the B-47 and XB-52) made a barrel roll in front of the public -- as you do.
I've heard reports that some older engineers often asked (even into at least the 1990s): "If it worked on the 707, why do we need to re-do it?"