First Flight for JA16KZ

This morning line 1485 (RC526) JA16KZ for Nippon Cargo Airlines went up on a B1 flight. It looks like NCA is sticking to the plan they described over a year ago, taking three 747-8Fs in 2013, and three more in 2014. There was some uncertainty as to whether they meant calender year or fiscal year (ending in March or April). As for when they'll take the last six they have on order (they ordered a total of 14), things are still unclear.

http://kpae.blogspot.com/

Line 1480 First Flight

Line 1480 (RC030) D-ABYK for Lufthansa went for a short first flight today. Something made them turn around and return early. Thanks to Matt Cawby for the photos.

Line 1485 (RC526) JA16KZ for Nippon Cargo rolled off the FAL without engines, another frame waiting for the newly certified PIP enabled GE engines.

Lufthansa's first 747-8I, line 1443 (RC022) D-ABYA, has been inactive since July 11th. It's too early for a C or D check, so I wonder what's going on with her.

Below is 1480's taxi test and first flight. You can mouse wheel through them and it's like watching it live!