Boeing launched its biggest airliner today by announcing orders worth $5 billion for a stretched and upgraded version of its 747 from freight carriers Cargolux and Nippon Cargo Airlines.
Luxembourg-based Cargolux has ordered 10 of the 747-8 freighter version and taken purchase rights for a further 10. Deliveries are to begin in the third quarter of 2009.
The new 747-8
Japan-based Nippon Cargo ordered eight and took options for six more and will receive the first in the fourth quarter of 2009.
Boeing is also offering a passenger version of the plane called the 747-8 Intercontinental, but has yet to announce a buyer.
The Intercontinental will be 3.6 metres longer than the current 747-400 and will fit 34 additional seats; the freighter will be 5.6 meters longer than the 747-400 freighter.
Boeing's 747-8 will target users of the long-serving 747 with two stretched versions powered by more efficient engines, while rival Airbus plans to deliver its mammoth A380 doubledecker late next year.
Boeing said the 747-8 would cost 20 per cent less to operate per flight than the Airbus A380.
The A380, with its extended upper deck and seating for more than 800, has cost €12 billion to develop and is aimed at eclipsing the 747, which entered service in 1970 and has undergone extensive upgrades since.