Hello. It seems, in my mind, the 747 was made and made correct. It has more or less stayed true to its original design, and for good reason.
I think Boeing sat on their hands as ideas surfaced and the technology of materials improved and got to get their hands dirty once again with the 8.
So, I ask this. Is the 747-400 the tried and true design that is timeless and can probably not be made any better. Better being subjective, but I say this. Best is a balance of all things considered and if they could improve fuel mileage, or whatever, then the engine would be more complex or make less power.
With the balance of compromises being stated:
Is the 747-8 an improvement? Maybe it flies a little faster or a little smoother, less stress on components- leading to longer service or easier landings (or more forgiving).
OR
oR
Or
Do you think they are keeping up with the Joneses by making it flashier and put up better numbers on paper?
Maybe it is built in a different factory than the 400 or uses differing metal alloys ?
I don't know, just asking.
I am usually nervous and suspicious when something resembling perfect somehow gets better. It seems the beans counters and/or the marketers took over production and found a way to cheat.
But hopefully all is well in Washington with America's sweetheart airplane.
I think Boeing sat on their hands as ideas surfaced and the technology of materials improved and got to get their hands dirty once again with the 8.
So, I ask this. Is the 747-400 the tried and true design that is timeless and can probably not be made any better. Better being subjective, but I say this. Best is a balance of all things considered and if they could improve fuel mileage, or whatever, then the engine would be more complex or make less power.
With the balance of compromises being stated:
Is the 747-8 an improvement? Maybe it flies a little faster or a little smoother, less stress on components- leading to longer service or easier landings (or more forgiving).
OR
oR
Or
Do you think they are keeping up with the Joneses by making it flashier and put up better numbers on paper?
Maybe it is built in a different factory than the 400 or uses differing metal alloys ?
I don't know, just asking.
I am usually nervous and suspicious when something resembling perfect somehow gets better. It seems the beans counters and/or the marketers took over production and found a way to cheat.
But hopefully all is well in Washington with America's sweetheart airplane.