Boeing delivered first 747-8 PAX today

[CathayPacific]

http://ca.news.yahoo.com/boeing-delivers-biggest-747-secret-vip-buyer-001228801.html

The aircraft was delivered to the BBJ customer, which is actually the launch customer of the PAX version, before LH made its order. Most probably a Gulf state.

[SAMRPICS]

My guess would be that this is the one destined for the Qatar Amiri flight that is on the front page today. Hopefully it wont remain in the dull all white scheme.

[LUNN]

First was due for Kuwait govt. AFAIK, and according to wiki there is no BBJ variant of 747-8, I thought Boeing were marketing such a version.

[LUNN]

According to ch-aviation, it seems to be for Saudia Royal Flight, replacing the 744 which was delivered just mid or late 2011, after four years of undergoing refurbishment from SV passenger config to VIP in Basle, its now been stored at Victorville after a few months of service, the 748 will get its registration HZ-HM1.

[ErwinS]

Are you sure? Why is she A7-HHE, a Reg wich would fit nicely in the Qatar Amiri Flight, but aferwards she would go to the Saudi Gvmnt?

[LUNN]

My bad, I didnt bother to check that.

[ErwinS]

No problem. I'll bet it will be a matter of time when the Saudi's buy a 748 for their VIP fleet.

[LUNN]

The Saudi 748 is already listed at ch-aviation, but another source from SV is calling this info incorrect.