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Reflecting on Bill Allen's legacy amid debate over new leadership at Boeing

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Christine Forbes Smith Editorial Director | Airline Ratings

As debate continues over the suitability of Stephanie Pope to lead Boeing Commercial Airplanes, it is worth recalling that Bill Allen, a lawyer by profession, was arguably Boeing's most influential president. Allen's tenure saw the launch of several aircraft that revolutionized aviation.

Critics have questioned Ms. Pope’s qualifications to revitalize the commercial division of the aerospace giant, noting her lack of engineering background.

William McPherson Allen was born on September 1, 1900, in Lolo, Montana. He graduated from Harvard Law School in 1925 and joined the Board of Boeing Air Transport in 1930 while working at Seattle law firm Donworth, Todd & Higgins. In 1931, he joined the Board of Boeing Airplane Company as corporate counsel. By 1944, he was appointed President of Boeing when then-Chairman Claire Egtvedt determined that none of the company's senior engineers had sufficient experience to lead.

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Allen initially felt unqualified for the role but eventually accepted after some persuasion. He became Boeing’s longest-serving President from September 1, 1945, until April 29, 1968, and later served as chairman until 1972.

During his leadership, Allen oversaw the introduction of iconic aircraft such as the B-47, B-52, 707, 720, 727, 737 and 747. These models established Boeing as a dominant force in commercial aviation.

The following are notable moments from his career captured in photographs from Boeing’s Historical Archives:

- Mr. Allen holding a model of the B-29 while conversing with Dwight D. Eisenhower.

- Taking a jet flight on a company B-47 bomber.

- The christening ceremony of the Boeing 707 prototype with Mrs. Boeing.

- With Tex Johnston after the first flight of the 707.

- Seated with C.R. Smith and Wellwood Beall in a mockup of the 707.

- Standing alongside C.R. Smith and Bill Patterson during United Airlines' signing for thirty Boeing 720s.

- After the first flight of the 747.

- On stairs to a 747 with Juan Trippe and other Pan Am executives including Charles Lindbergh.

These images highlight significant milestones under Allen's leadership.

Organizations Included in this History
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