Boeings’ much anticipated re-vamped B747 freighter took a major step closer this week toward final assembly as mechanics at its Everett, Washington facility loaded the forward and aft fuselage sections to join with the wing and centre section of the freighter, RC501. “It is exciting to see this airplane taking shape,” said Mo Yahyavi, vice president and general manager of the 747 Program. “The 747-8 is the largest commercial jet airplane we have assembled. This final body join provides us the first real look at the size of the 747-8 Freighter.” RC501 is expected to roll out of the factory by the end of September and to begin flight testing in the fourth quarter. Delivery to launch customer Cargolux is expected in the third quarter 2010.