Alerts Sign-up
The Boeing 747, an iconic aircraft known for its size and design, is becoming less common in the aviation industry. Its operational costs are a significant factor in this trend. The Boeing 747-400 has a fuel burn rate of approximately 3,240 gallons per hour, while the newer Boeing 747-8 uses about 3,143 gallons per hour due to more efficient engines. However, fluctuating jet fuel prices mean that operating these planes remains costly.
Staffing requirements also contribute to expenses. A modern Boeing 747 requires at least two pilots and twelve flight attendants. In the U.S., pilots' pay ranges from $439.29 to $478.75 per hour for captains and from $118.31 to $327.03 for first officers. American Airlines cabin crew earn between $35.82 and $82.24 per hour.
The capital cost of acquiring a Boeing 747 is substantial as well. The list price for a 747-400 was over $260 million, while the 747-8 was priced at around $418 million during production years ago, though airlines often receive discounts.
