The twin-engine, medium-range Boeing 757 commercial transport first flew Feb. 19, 1982 and is up to 80 percent more fuel efficient than the 727s it was designed to replace but retains the 727's short-field capability. The 757-200, also offered as a freighter, can carry 239 passengers, in two classes, up to 4,520 miles. In September 1996, Boeing launched the 4,000-mile-range 757-300, a stretched model that seats from 243 to 279 passengers. By 1999 Boeing had delivered more than 1,000 757s. Four 757s were modified as replacements for the older 707-based VC-137 executive transports for government officials and designated C-32As.