Boeing Signs Orders and Commitments for 17 747-8s

Boeing has said it has received orders and commitments for 17 747-8 Intercontinentals.

Placed by two, as yet undisclosed customers, the combined deals are valued at $5.4 billion at list prices.

One carrier has committed to 15 of the new passenger version of the 747-8 while another carrier placed an order for two.

"These orders for the 747-8 Intercontinental mark a major milestone for the program and demonstrate the market's need for an airplane of its size and range," said Jim Albaugh, president and CEO, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "It will play a valuable role in further growing these carriers long-haul route networks."

The orders bring the 747-8 Intercontinental total backlog to 50 firm aircraft, plus five from a commitment from Air China contingent on Chinese Government approval. It also brings the total 747-8 backlog, including 76 747-8 Freighters, to 126.

The new 747-8 Intercontinental carries 467 passengers in a three-class configuration. The airplane features a new wing design and an upgraded flight deck. The airplane interior incorporates features from the 787 Dreamliner including a new curved, upswept architecture that will give passengers a greater sense of space and comfort, while adding more room for personal belongings. The architecture will be accentuated by lighting technology that Boeing says provides smooth transitions for a more restful flight.

The aircraft uses GEnx-2B engines.

The Paris Air Show is being held this week at Le Bourget near the French capital, Paris.

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