Yep, I think the 777 was the first twin jet rated for over ocean/intercontinental flight? (retired/inactive A&P mech here).
ATC audio recording of the incident...the “action” starts at about 08:35 into it:
https://archive.liveatc.net/kden/KDEN-Dep-Feb-20-2021-2000Z.mp3
no. etops has been around awhile. 75 and 76s especially .
I remember 767’s being certified ETOPs (engine turns or people swim) back in the early ‘90’s. The aircraft was built for the North Atlantic route. A&P here.