I for one don't understand the point of the passenger 748, it's more expensive to run that an A380, it's based on a 40+ year old design, and at 400 seats it's eclipsed even by Boeing's own 777-300ER. Hence why only two customers have ordered it and only 33 have been sold since 2006 when it was announced.
Yes it is iconic, but at the current rate of sale it's going to be a big fat dud. Airlines needing 400+ seat planes can look at more advanced options and most have already voted.
eejp1007 wrote:... it would be so sad if it ever gets to the stage where there are no 747s being made ...
All good things pass for a reason.
platinumleo wrote:However I do hope Virgin will be including this in the new fleet
Why? An A380 is a much more advanced, economical plane and frankly is leagues more comfortable to fly in.
clarkeysntfc wrote:From a fleet perspective, Virgin would probably be more sensible to get an order in for these. An extra 50 seats and less fuel burn would surely fit the bill better (also taking into account the crew commonality) than the A380?
Better than what? The fuel burn per passenger on an A380 beats the 748 easily. The flight deck of an A380 has commonality with an A346 too. Oh, and the small matter that VS has already ordered the A380 and presumably paid something in deposit.