I have to admit: while I was aware of the 748, I didn't think Boeing was getting much interest for it from commercial airlines. I too thought I had read somewhere that none were currently on the assembly line. mmff's link suggests that's not true.

I don't think there will ever be another "Queen of the Skies" the way the 747 was. It was such a huge game-changer. In the year 2040, the long-haul jets of choice will probably be 77X's, 787's, and A350's. But none will replace the 747, either in terms of magnitude of change to the industry or prevalence in pop culture.

And it's *still* the most beautiful airframe out there. I love seeing them even today, even if I'm just seeing some tired old cargo version. My favorite trips are when I actually get to board one via stairs.