More than 47 years after the first Boeing 707 jet airliner joined the Qantas fleet, the aircraft, previously known as City of Canberra is set to make an historic return to Australia.

Qantas Chairman Margaret Jackson and Minister for the Environment and Heritage Senator Ian Campbell today announced that the first Qantas Boeing 707, the first jet aircraft sold outside of the United States, would make a celebratory return to Australia next month.

"I’m proud to announce that this Boeing 707, believed to be the last and oldest of its kind in operation, will make its permanent home at the Qantas Founders’ Outback Museum in Longreach, Queensland," she said.

"The aircraft will depart London bound for the United States retracing its original route from Honolulu and Nadi to Sydney arriving in early November.

Ms Jackson said the aircraft would visit Brisbane before its final destination in Longreach.

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