The Boeing 747, a significant figure in aviation history, continues to be a subject of interest despite the end of its production in 2023. Known as the 'Queen of the Skies,' this aircraft has been an icon since its introduction in the 1970s. While primarily used for freight today, over 40 passenger versions remain operational, mainly as the latest 747-8i variant.

Boeing ceased production due to decreased demand and competition from more efficient twin-engine jets like the Boeing 777 and Airbus A350. The operating costs for a Boeing 747 vary by model. The older 747-400 is less efficient than the newer 747-8 with GEnx engines. According to Tom Farrier, a retired US Air Force command pilot, "the generic operating cost of a 747-400 is $25,000 per flight hour," covering variable expenses such as fuel and crew.

Fuel consumption is substantial for these aircraft, ranging between 10-12 tons per hour. Other significant costs include maintenance and airport handling fees. In terms of seat cost efficiency, the 747-8i surpasses the older model due to higher seating capacity.

Currently, only four airlines operate scheduled passenger flights with Boeing 747s: Air China, Korean Air, Lufthansa, and Rossiya Airlines. Lufthansa holds the largest fleet among them with both variants in service.

For those interested in leasing or chartering a Boeing 747-400, costs start at over $30,000 per hour according to Paramount Business Jets or as low as $25,000 per Mercury Jets estimates. Leasing arrangements can range from $55,000 to $110,000 monthly for longer-term agreements.

Acquiring a new Boeing 747 directly from production is no longer possible; however, secondhand markets offer pre-owned models at significantly lower prices—though their economic viability remains uncertain.

Specialized versions like Air Force One incur much higher operational costs due to unique modifications required for presidential transport duties. These VC-25A planes are significantly more expensive to operate than commercial airline models.

The propulsion system of choice for newer models is GE Aerospace's GEnx engine family which offers improved fuel efficiency compared to earlier engines like CF6 used on older models such as the Boeing 747-400.