N740AS

This specific airframe, registered as N740AS, is a Boeing-built airliner manufactured in 1981 by The Boeing Company with manufacturer's serial number 22578. The airframe is owned by ALASKA AVIATION MUSEUM, a corporation based in Anchorage, AK, US, and is recorded on the United States civil registry. Acquired into museum custody for preservation and public display, the aircraft represents a late-production example of the 737-200 family with a documented combi cabin heritage and museum stewardship in Anchorage.

The airframe historically operated in a Combi (passenger/cargo) configuration, with a listed capacity of 134 seats in its documented layout, reflecting a mixed-use mission profile common to remote and regional operations. Based in Anchorage under museum ownership, the aircraft’s operational history and present role emphasize preservation rather than active revenue service; prior typical missions for this configuration would have included short- to medium-range regional passenger and freight runs. Avionics fit details are not published for this specific airframe; maintenance considerations for continued preservation focus on aging JT8D engine support and airframe corrosion control typical of early 1980s airliners in variable climates. The museum context reduces utilization stress but increases emphasis on long-term parts availability, display airworthiness assessments, and interpretive maintenance to retain historical authenticity.

The Boeing 737-290C (737-200C Advanced) occupies the classic short- to medium-haul jet niche, offering rugged, versatile performance suitable for mixed passenger and cargo operations, particularly where runway length or regional infrastructure constrained larger types. Competing models in its era included older regional jets and turboprops adapted for combi roles; demand today is primarily among collectors, museums, and niche cargo operators rather than mainstream passenger carriers. Market and maintenance considerations for this airframe center on the age of the airframe (built 1981), JT8D powerplant support, and the diminishing pool of serviceable components, factors that drive preservation and static-display value more than active commercial resale.