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Boeing's Queen of the Skies maintains speed leadership with final deliveries

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Boeing's Queen of the Skies maintains speed leadership with final deliveries
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Boeing 747-8 | Boeing Website

The Boeing 747-8, the latest variant of the renowned "Queen of the Skies," remains one of the fastest commercial planes, cruising at a speed of 659 mph (1,061 kmh). Known for its size and capacity, the 747-8 is praised for its aerodynamics and powerful engines. The aircraft's engineering allows it to carry substantial loads and achieve remarkable speeds.

Boeing's 747 series has been iconic since its introduction. Pan American World Airways was the launch customer when deliveries began in January 1970. The last delivery occurred on January 31, 2023, concluding a production run that spanned over five decades with 1,573 units delivered.

The aircraft lost market traction as fuel costs rose and airlines opted for more efficient twinjets. Despite this shift, many 747s continue to operate today, primarily in freighter roles. The final passenger version sale was to the United States Air Force in 2017. Atlas Air received the last four cargo models.

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Test pilots Curt Gottshall and Kirk Vining shared insights into flying the 747-8 with Flying Magazine. Vining noted its performance: “I tested high speed and low speed in the 747-8, and demonstrated full aerodynamic stalls...It’s an amazingly light and flexible airplane for its size."

While production has ended, Boeing continues work on retrofitting two 747-8I jets originally intended for Transero as future Air Force One aircraft under a $3.9 billion contract signed by President Donald Trump in 2018.

Organizations Included in this History
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