Boeing unveils new 747-8 Intercontinental
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Date: February 17, 2011
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Lauren Mitchell
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Boeing unveiled its next-generation 747-8 jumbo jet in Washington on February 14, almost 42 years to the day since the maiden flight of the first 747. The new jumbo seats 467 passengers, 51 more than the current 747, and offers state-of-the-art engines, new wings and a new tail. The design changes in the 747-8 aim to burn less fuel, increase performance and offer passengers greater comfort. The bright red, orange and white colour scheme is a departure from the standard Boeing blue. The first of the US$317.5 million (around A$316.8 million) jets will be delivered to Lufthansa and is currently being constructed. Initial sales of the 747-8 have been slow but Boeing is confident that the aircraft will be able to compete with the new A380 and will revive the glamour surrounding the iconic 747 range.
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