Instantly recognized by passengers around the world, the Boeing 747 is in a class by itself. The 747-8 continues the 747 family legacy by integrating advanced technology into one of the world’s most modern and fuel-efficient airplanes. In late 2005, Boeing launched the 747-8 program, including the 747-8 Intercontinental passenger airplane and the 747-8 Freighter. The Freighter will enter service in 2009, followed by the passenger version in 2010. The 747-8 will be the only airplane in the 400-seat market, seating 450 passengers in a typical three-class configuration (34 more than the 747-400). The Freighter will carry 23 more tons than the 747-400 Freighter and will be the industry’s only nose-cargo-loading jet. Both the passenger and freighter variants of the 747-8 have an increased maximum takeoff weight of 435,456 kilograms (960,000 pounds) and represent a new benchmark in fuel efficiency and noise reduction, allowing airlines to lower fuel costs and fly into more airports at more times of the day. Production of the 747-400, primarily the freighter version, will continue until the 747-8 family enters service in 2009. The 747-400 itself incorporates major aerodynamic improvements over earlier 747 models, including the addition of winglets to reduce drag, new avionics, a new flight deck and the latest in-flight entertainment systems. And, the 747 continues to be the world’s fastest subsonic jetliner, cruising at Mach .855 -- or 85.5 percent of the speed of sound. Along with the popular Boeing 777, the 747 is a key element of theBoeing long-range market strategy.