BOEING PLANS TO BUILD LONGER-RANGE B747
After canceling plans to build the super jumbo B747X, Boeing is exploring market demand for a new version of its jumbo workhorse B747-400 that could fly longer distances without giving up passenger or cargo capacity.
The 747-400 freighter has become a favorite of the cargo world, helping fuel expansion of such all-cargo airlines as Atlas Air and Luxembourg-based Cargolux International Airlines. The B747-400 freighter can carry up to 120 tons of freight 2,800 nautical miles. Operators say the plane lowers operating costs while improving revenue potential.
The planned long-range B747 would be able to fly about 775 miles farther than the existing 400s with similar capacity and speed. The design relies on new generation engines under design at Rolls-Royce, General Electric and United Technologies.