Boeing has announced that is has closed the order book for the world’s largest commercial jet in commercial service, the Boeing 747-400, with the US manufacturer ending production of the passenger version of its 747-400 jumbo to make way for its new-generation 747-8, due to launch in 2010. The last of the more than 450 747-400 passenger planes was delivered in April of 2005, and China Airlines placed the last order in November 2002
The 747-400 will lose its status as the largest jetliner in commercial service after Singapore Airlines takes delivery of its first 555-passenger Airbus A380 late this year, but the outlook for Boeing keeps getting better as orders continue to surge for its 787 Dreamliner, which is on track for a first flight mid-year and first delivery next year, with orders for the Dreamliner approaching the 500 mark, Boeing said this week.
The 787, which is designed to burn 20% less fuel than comparable airplanes by using more lightweight composites, is a major factor in the Chicago-based company’s resurgence in the race with European rival Airbus.
Report by The Mole
