The Longer-Range 747-400 airplanes (also known as 747-400ERs), launched in late 2000, are the latest demonstration of Boeing's commitment to continually improving the 747 to meet evolving market demands. These airplanes are a tangible demonstration of Boeing's commitment to the future of the 747.

Boeing continues to study the market for improved passenger and freighter versions of the 747-400 - airplanes that would offer greater payload, more range and revenue-enhancing features, options and capabilities. And, airplanes that are even more environmentally friendly.

As part of this market study, Boeing is actively talking with 747 customers about their future long-range, high-capacity needs. A 747 product improvement plan is currently being developed to enhance the airplane's value for existing and future customers, with some new features targeted for as early as 2003.

These features could include airplane noise reductions to meet the latest environmental rules, flight deck enhancements for improved operational efficiency, redesigned interior architecture for passengers as they enter the airplane, and innovative use of the space above the main passenger deck for Sky Suites -- a capability possible only on a 747.

On the freighter side, the 747 Freighter's future is as bright as its past is legendary; 747s carry half of all the world's air cargo. Currently, the 747-400 Freighter fills the market need for high-capacity, long-range cargo carrying. When market demand dictates, the 747 Freighter will be ready to take the next evolutionary step in its role as the world's preferred cargo airplane.

Just as Boeing is studying ways to improve the airplane itself, efforts are also in high gear to improve the way the airplane is designed and built. Always looking for ways to streamline production processes with lean manufacturing, the 747 program is studying a moving line for its Everett, Wash., factory. If incorporated, the 747 assembly line would move continuously by 2004. It's just one more demonstration of Boeing's commitment to keeping the 747 the Queen of the Skies well into the 21st century.

When the market demands a 747 with additional capabilities, Boeing will be ready to build it.