The last Boeing 747, a 747-8 Freighter, has left
the company’s widebody factory in Everett, Washington in advance of its delivery to Atlas
Air in early 2023.
The iconic 747 played a key role in Boeing’s
history and transformed global travel after entering service in
1970.
Production of the 747, the world’s first
twin-aisle airplane, began in 1967 and spanned 54 years, during
which a total of 1,574 airplanes were built.
At 250 ft 2 in (76.2 m), the 747-8 is the longest
commercial aircraft in service, and when flying at typical cruising speeds,
the aircraft travels roughly the length of three FIFA football
(soccer) pitches per second.
The 747-8 Freighter has a revenue payload of 133.1 tonnes, enough to transport
10,699 solid-gold bars or approximately 19 million table tennis
or golf balls.
“For more than half a century, tens of thousands
of dedicated Boeing employees have designed and built this
magnificent airplane that has truly changed the world. We are
proud that this plane will continue to fly across the globe for
years to come,” said Kim Smith, Boeing Vice President and general
manager, 747 and 767 Programs.
