EVERETT, Wash., 9 May 2010. Aeronautical engineers at the Boeing Co. in Everett, Wash., are beginning to assemble the latest version of the 747 jumbo jet, a fuel-efficient version of the venerable giant passenger and cargo liner that incorporates the curved, upswept architecture of the 787 Dreamliner that gives passengers a greater sense of space and comfort while adding more room for personal belongings.
Boeing began assembly of the first 747-8 Intercontinental jumbo jet at the company's factory in Everett, Wash., late last week when mechanics started loading the aircraft's wing panels and spars in the assembly tools. The spar is the internal support structure that runs through the full length of the wing.
The 747-8 Intercontinental is stretched 18.3 feet from the 747-400 to provide 467 seats -- 51 more than its 747-400 predecessor -- in a three-class configuration. The 747-8 is 16 percent more fuel efficient, generates 30 percent less noise, provides nearly equivalent trip costs, 13 percent lower seat-mile costs, and 26 percent greater cargo volume than the 747-400, Boeing officials say.
The 747-8 interior also takes the 787 Dreamliner's approach of using lighting technology that provides smooth transitions for a more restful flight, company officials say.
The 747-8, which includes the 747-8 Intercontinental and the 747-8 Freighter, was launched in November 2005. Boeing has 108 orders for the 747-8 -- 32 for the 747-8 Intercontinental and 76 for the 747-8 Freighter. The first 747-8 Intercontinental is scheduled to deliver in late 2011.
Deutsche Lufthansa AG was the first airline to order the new aircraft, contracting for 20 747-8 Intercontinentals, with purchase rights for an additional 20. For more information contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes online at www.boeing.com/commercial.
