BOEING has launched a stretch of the 747, the first since the highly successful introduction of the Dash 400 way back in 1989. Called the 747-8 the aircraft comes in both passenger and freighter modes, the all-cargo version the first with firm orders and deliveries to Cargolux of Luxembourg from autumn 2009. Cargolux has signed up for ten with ten options and All Nippon Cargo eight plus six. The 747-8 Freighter will be 5.6m (18.3 ft) longer than current models. With a total payload capacity of 140 metric tonnes (154 tons), the 747-8F provides 16% more cargo revenue volume than the 747-400. The 747-8 Intercontinental passenger plane will be stretched 3.6m (11.7 ft), compared to the 747-400, to accommodate 34 additional seats in a typical three-class configuration. No orders have been announced but if the passenger aircraft is built, it will feature many of the cabin enhancements featured on the yet to fly 787. Both versions of the new 747 will feature GE's 787-technology GEnx engines, meet Stage 4 and QC2 noise requirements, have reduced emissions, offer lower trip costs and have an upgraded flight deck and an improved wing.
http://www.boeing.com