The Largest of the 747s: A Look at the Boeing 747-8

The Boeing 747 is an iconic aircraft, having been in service since 1969. It is a wide-bodied, four-engine jet airliner that can carry up to 660 passengers and has a remarkable range of over 8,000 nautical miles. In 2011, the largest variant of this legendary plane was introduced - the Boeing 747-8.

This new model was designed to be larger than its predecessor, the 747-400. To accomplish this goal, its length was increased by 18.3 meters (60 feet), wingspan by 6 meters (20 feet), and overall height by 1.5 meters (5 feet). This allowed for more fuel capacity and cargo capacity.

Powerful Engines

The engines used on the 747-8 were also upgraded from those used on the previous model. The CF6-80C2B7F turbofans are more powerful and fuel-efficient than their predecessors, allowing for greater speed and range.

Impressive Features

The Boeing 747-8 has some impressive features that make it stand out from other aircraft. It has a maximum takeoff weight of 975 tons - one of the heaviest aircraft in operation - as well as a maximum range of 8,000 nautical miles which allows it to fly nonstop between any two points on Earth.

Inside is just as impressive with 467 seats across three classes available for up to 660 passengers. The cabin also includes modern amenities such as Wi-Fi connectivity and personal entertainment systems.

A Lasting Legacy

The Boeing 747-8 is an incredible feat of engineering that will continue to be popular amongst travelers for years to come thanks to its size, power, and features.