Boeing is scaling back production of its wide body 747 aircraft, according to the Puget Sound Business Journal. The versatile “Jumbo Jet”, which took its first commercial flight in 1970, can be configured to haul passengers or freight. In fact, the 747 developed a reputation as one of the best cargo planes in the business, largely because of its big front cargo door. (So handy for oversized loads.).Alas, the cargo plane market is shrinking as shippers continue to stuff freight into the belly of passenger planes. (PSBJ says Boeing has just 39 orders for 747s, compared to 553 for its passenger-only 777.) "Airlines have been too emotional about freighters and it is time to be more rational,” said KLM managing cargo director Erik Varwijk back in September. Probably so. But that's cold comfort for workers at Boeing’s Everett plant where 747 assembly accounts for roughly one third of the activity. — M.B.
Boeing's cargo cutbacks
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By Mary Bruno
Mary was Crosscut's Editor-in-Chief and Interim Publisher. In more than 25 years as a journalist, she has worked as a writer, editor and editorial director for a variety of print and web publications,
Mary was Crosscut's Editor-in-Chief and Interim Publisher. In more than 25 years as a journalist, she has worked as a writer, editor and editorial director for a variety of print and web publications,