While yesterday in court [see box] saw corporate warfare at its worst between arch rivals, Airbus and Boeing, the playing field is soon to get even more interesting with the latter planemaker readying its 747-8 Intercontinental airliner to rival the opulent A380.
Last week, Boeing successfully completed its first flight of the 747-8 Freighter. Its 747-8I will follow in its sibling's path, with lengthened fuselage, redesigned wings and improved efficiency.
A fitting rival?
Officially announced in 2005, the passenger version will be capable of carrying up to 467 passengers in a three-class configuration, across nearly 15,000km. The 747-8I will carry 51 more passengers and two more freight pallets than the 747-400.
Critics say, the Paris-based Airbus A320 still maintains the lead with a range of 15,200km, and a capacity of 550 passengers. However, new engine technology and modifications will allow the 747-8I to fly non-stop on routes such as Hong Kong-New York, Sydney-Houston or Buenos Aires-Dubai.
In November 2009, development glitches forced Boeing to delay the 747-8I first delivery from late 2010 to the second quarter of 2011.
Jim McNerney, Boeing Chief Executive, at the time blamed the delay on softening demand in the cargo market. Boeing has slowed the pace of 747-8F deliveries, which means the first 747-8I cannot be inducted into final assembly until later.
Reports say, Lufthansa was the first airline to order 20 747-8Is, followed by seven solitary VIP orders. In December 2009, Korean Air announced an order of five 747-8Is. The unit cost of a 747-8I can range between $293 million (Dh1.07bn) and $308m, while the A380 ranges between $317m and $337m.
Designer digs
Initially, Boeing had proposed creating a revenue-generating SkyLoft passenger facility in the crown - the space above the passenger cabin, used for AC ducts and wiring. This facility would have included SkySuites, encompassing individual compartments with beds. Boeing had proposed smaller, more modest SkyBunks. However, pricing feasibility studies found the SkyLoft concept difficult to justify. In 2007, Boeing dropped the concept to make way for galleys and crew rest areas. (with inputs from Bindu Suresh Rai)
By Staff Writer
© Emirates Business 24/7 2010
