Boeing's 747-8 freighter set to make first flight

Boeing has announced that its giant 747-8 freighter is ready for its first flight today after performing well on taxi tests and reaching a top speed of about 103.5mph, AP has reported. A passenger version of the plane is also being developed by the plane maker. It lists 76 orders for the freighter and 32 for the 747-8 passenger jet, with the vast majority from international customers. The company said the jets will be much quieter, more fuel efficient and have lower emissions than current 747-400 models.