NEW YORK - The 747 is perhaps the most popular plane in Boeing's history. But the embattled aircraft maker could be getting close to finally pulling the plug on the once groundbreaking jumbo jet with the distinctive second-floor bulge, Chris Isidore reports for CNN. Continue reading original article.
The Intelligent Aerospace take:
July 7, 2020 -The iconic 747 hasn't been produced for passenger travel Boeing delivered one to Korean Air in 2017. The Chicago-based manufactuer has been building freighter versions, though only a 15 firm orders remain - 12 of which come from UPS.
"The 747-8 is an incredibly capable aircraft, with capacity that is unmatched by any other freighter in production," said UPS. "With a maximum payload of 307,000 lbs., we use them on long, high-volume routes, connecting Asia, North America, Europe and the Middle East."
However, Boeing is looking to cut costs, and Chris Isidore notes in his piece that the company is losing $40 million on each 747 produced and may be on the chopping block."At a build rate of half an airplane per month, the 747-8 program has more than two years of production ahead of it in order to fulfill our current customer commitments. We will continue to make the right decisions to keep the production line healthy and meet customer needs," said Boeing.
Related: UPS expands network with 14, potentially 28, Boeing 747-8 Freighter cargo aircraft
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Related: Boeing 747 jumbo jet turns 50, but its future remains uncertain
Jamie Whitney, Associate Editor
Intelligent Aerospace
