The Economy

Boeing Books Orders for 17 Intercontinentals at Paris Air Show

June 20, 2011

Orders are valued at $5.4 billion at list prices.

So far, Boeing is flying high at the Paris International Air Show.

The Chicago-based aerospace company said it has received orders and commitments for 17 of its 747-8 Intercontinental jumbo jets.

Placed by two 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 jets, according to Boeing.

Boeing's 747-8 Intercontinental touches down at Paris Le Bourget Airport.
"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 of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "It will play a valuable role in further growing these carriers' long-haul-route networks." The orders bring the total backlog for 747-8 Intercontinentals to 50 firm aircraft, plus five from a commitment from Air China contingent on Chinese government approval, according to Boeing. The total 747-8 backlog, including 76 747-8 freighters, is up to 126, according to the company. The new 747-8 Intercontinental carries 467 passengers in a three-class configuration. With 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," Boeing explained in a news release. Boeing claims that its Intercontinental is more than 10% lighter per seat than the Airbus A380 and consumes 11% less fuel per passenger. See Also:

"Boeing, Airbus Bring High Hopes to Paris International Air Show"

About the Author

Josh Cable | Former Senior Editor

Former Senior Editor Josh Cable covered innovation issues -- including trends and best practices in R&D, process improvement and product development. He also reported on the best practices of the most successful companies and executives in the world of transportation manufacturing, which encompasses the aerospace, automotive, rail and shipbuilding sectors.

Josh also led the IndustryWeek Manufacturing Hall of Fame, IW’s annual tribute to the most influential executives and thought leaders in U.S. manufacturing history.

Before joining IndustryWeek, Josh was the editor-in-chief of Penton Media’s Government Product News and Government Procurement. He also was an award-winning beat reporter for several small newspapers in Northeast Ohio.

Josh received his BFA in creative writing from Bowling Green University, and continued his professional development through course-work at Ohio University and Cuyahoga Community College.

A lifelong resident of the Buckeye State, Josh currently lives in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland. When the weather cooperates, you’ll find him riding his bike to work, exercising his green thumb in the backyard or playing ultimate Frisbee.