The 720 was basically a 707 modified for short to medium routes and for use on shorter runways. To make the 720 lighter than the standard 707, engineers reduced the fuselage length by 9 feet and redesigned the wing. The 720 wing had a new inboard profile and nearly full-span leading-edge flaps. It carried less fuel, which also lowered its gross weight and slightly increased its top speed. The jet was an immediate commercial success. Boeing built a total of 154 Model 720s, in all versions, between 1959 and 1967.