The latest and most technologically-advanced version of the world-famous Boeing 747 airliner is set to make its maiden flight in coming hours (the flight was scheduled to take place at the start of the week commencing February 8th, 2010). By the end of 2010, this aircraft should have entered service and – before too long – be a regular sight at airports the world-over.

The 747-8 is longer than any other preceding 747 variant. Its engines and avionics mirror those integrated into the 787 Dreamliner design – the prototype of which flew towards the end of 2009.

According to Boeing – compared to the current generation of 747s – the 747-8 will impact less on the environment, be quieter and be cheaper to operate. It will be available in both freight and passenger-carrying versions. According to statistics released for the cargo 747-8, it will consume 17 per cent less fuel than the 747-400 (the last major 747 upgrade, which first flew over two decades ago), lift 16 per cent more freight into the air, and reduce costs by 16 per cent, as well.

Cargolux is currently set to be the launch customer for this aircraft, once around eight months of flight tests have been completed in full.

747-8: First Flight

The 747-8’s first flight will take place over 12 months late – a result of the complications that made the Dreamliner’s development scheduling shift, too.

“With high-speed taxi testing scheduled in the coming days, we’re on track for first flight soon thereafter”, Boeing stated on February 3rd. These taxi trials have since been completed, with success.

The Boeing 747 can be seen at airports worldwide and is a staple part of modern civil aviation. It first flew in 1969 and quickly gained the name ‘Jumbo Jet’ – which in part sealed its iconic status. That, and the fact that it opened up a new age of large-scale passenger transportation. Until the advent of the Airbus A380, it remained the largest aircraft in commercial service.

Airport International will present further coverage on the Boeing 747-8 – and its incorporation into the worldwide airport network – in future News Items.