Boeing

The first Boeing 747-400ER (extended range) cargo jet, complete with winglets, takes off for the first time, from Paine Field in Everett, Wash. Air France Cargo plans to put five of the giant jetliners in service over the next four years on routes to Asia and the Americas. The newest version of the industry-standard 747 Freighter family will allow the airline to increase its efficiency by allowing increased non-stop flying distances with fewer refueling stops. More than 250 747 Freighters are in operation throughout the world.