Boeing Unveils Fuel-Efficient 747-8 Intercontinental Aircraft

Boeing has unveiled its new fuel-efficient aircraft, the 747-8 Intercontinental, which promises to be a game-changer for airlines. The plane boasts 12 percent lower costs than its predecessor and provides 16 percent better fuel economy, along with 30 percent less noise.

The launch customer for this new model is German airline Lufthansa, which will use it on routes from Frankfurt to Johannesburg. Boeing claims that the 747-8 Intercontinental gives passengers a greater feeling of space and comfort, thanks to its interior design features shared with the Dreamliner.

In contrast, South African Airways (SAA) has started taking delivery of six new Airbus A330-200s, which will be used on routes including London, South America, and Accra in Ghana. However, Boeing is likely to offer its 747 model to SAA as a rival option.

Meanwhile, Cathay Pacific Airlines is running a competition where entrants can win unlimited round-trip economy class tickets from Hong Kong to any destinations offered by the airline or its sister company, Dragonair.