Boeing

The new Boeing 747-400ER (extended range) rolls out of the paint hangar in Everett, Wash., -- and now the countdown to its first flight begins. Following a June 17 employee rollout celebration, the airplane begins a series of ground tests in preparation for its first flight, expected in July.

The airplane, the 1,308th 747 to come off the assembly line, is one of two 747-400ERs that will be tested over the next three months to certify that it meets all regulatory and customer requirements.

The first 747-400ER will be delivered to launch customer Qantas Airways in October. The first 747-400ER Freighter will also be delivered in October.