Boeing flew the first increased gross weight 747-400ER on 31 July from its Everett factory at Paine Field, north of Seattle. The aircraft is one of two 747-400ERs that will undertake a three-month, 275h test programme, ahead of first deliveries to launch customer Qantas in October. The new model has a maximum take-off weight of 412,770 kg (910,000lb) - 15,870kg greater than earlier -400s. A freighter version is also offered, the first of which will be delivered in October to Air France on lease from International Lease Finance.
Source: Flight International
