Amid Dreamliner mess, Boeing readies a new 747

[choster]

http://www.reuters.com/article/ousiv...090924?sp=true

Amid Dreamliner mess, Boeing readies a new 747
Reuters September 26, 2009

Far from the publicity glare of Boeing's overdue Dreamliner project, an updated version of its iconic 747 jumbo jet is quietly inching toward its own test flight, an event that could restore some credibility Boeing has burned with the stalled Dreamliner.

Though not nearly as innovative or fuel-efficient as the revolutionary carbon-composite 787 Dreamliner, the 747-8 is sharing technology with the 787.… Boeing has not ruled out flying them on the same day.

[beckoa]

Boeing has not ruled out flying them on the same day

However, from what I've heard, the 748 will probably fly first, but if both took off right after each other... that would be pretty schweet

[ContinentalFan]

Thanks for the story. Does anyone know what orders are like for this new B748?

[Scrooge McDuck]

Accoring to Boeing, 27 planes have been ordered in the passenger version, 20 from LH and 7 as "Business Jet / VIP Customer(s)".

The fright version has 78 orders.

Both figures are through August 2009.

(Sorry, but I have found no way of linking directly to the data provided by Boeing).

[dsgtc0408]

Gee, is 20 passenger versions of the new 747 enough for Boeing to actually make this aircraft? That is, maybe they'll refund LH's deposit and pay a penalty to avoid making this plane if they don't get enough orders?

[Paella747]

Originally Posted by Scrooge McDuck

Accoring to Boeing, 27 planes have been ordered in the passenger version, 20 from LH and 7 as "Business Jet / VIP Customer(s)".

The fright version has 78....

Oh! I won't be taking any flights on that one!

[alcathiax]

Originally Posted by Paella747

Oh! I won't be taking any flights on that one!

Don't you know, it's coming out at the end of this month (i.e. October 31st)?