Boeing 747-8

The most advanced 747 variant, featuring a stretched upper deck and new GEnx engines. Operated by Lufthansa and Korean Air on long-haul routes as a flagship widebody.

Technical Specifications

Total seats: 410 typical configuration
Range: 14,815 km / 9,206 mi
Cruise speed: 910 km/h
Wingspan: 68 m
Length: 76 m
Engines: 4× GEnx-2B

Cabin Features

Economy seat pitch: 31–32 in (79–81 cm)
In-flight Wi-Fi: Available on most configurations
Power outlets: AC/USB available
Lie-flat beds: Available in premium cabins

Seat Selection Overview

The Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental is the final and most advanced variant of the iconic 747. Its upper deck is unique in commercial aviation — a 2-2 layout that's noticeably quieter and more private than the main deck. Lufthansa, Korean Air, and Air China are the primary operators.

Best Seats on the 747-8

Upper deck seats (business or premium): The 747's upper deck is the aircraft's most unique feature — a quieter, smaller cabin with fewer passengers above the engines. Business class in the hump (rows 1–12 on most configs) feels completely different from the main deck.
Economy window seats A & K: Same as the 777 — avoid the center 4-pack in a 3-4-3 layout. The 747-8 economy shares the same per-seat width challenges as the 777. Window in the outer 3-seat section is your best economy option.
Exit row economy seats: Extra legroom on a 13-hour transpacific flight is crucial. Exit row seats on the 747-8 offer 36–40 in.

Seats to Avoid on the 747-8

Center 4-pack (D, E, F, G) in economy: 3-4-3 layout means 4 center seats — same problem as the 777. Long-haul center middle seats are among the worst in commercial aviation.

Pro Tips

Lufthansa's 747-8 first class (8 suites in the upper deck nose) is the gold standard of widebody first class — ultra-private, lie-flat, personal wardrobe.
The upper deck of the 747-8 has 2-2 seating for business class — all seats are either window or aisle. Zero middle seats in the entire upper deck.
The 747's iconic hump makes the front of the upper deck feel like a private jet — limited passengers and a dedicated crew section.

Airlines Operating the 747-8

3 airline seat maps available for the Boeing 747-8.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the upper deck of the 747-8 better?

For business class passengers: yes, significantly. The upper deck has fewer passengers, a 2-2 layout (no middle seats), and a noticeably quieter cabin. For economy passengers the upper deck isn't typically available — economy is on the main deck.

Which airlines fly the Boeing 747-8?

Lufthansa (most advanced product), Korean Air, and Air China operate the 747-8i. The US carriers have retired their 747 fleets.