The B747-800 is a Design Group VI aircraft that represents the next generation of freighter aircraft for the cargo industry. With a lengthened fuselage, redesigned wings and improved efficiency, the plane is the largest version of the popular B747 and the largest commercial aircraft built in the United States.
World-leading cargo airlines, including Atlas Air, Cargolux, Cathay Pacific and Nippon Cargo, are anticipated to take delivery of the modern plane beginning this fall. Due to the B747-800's long wingspan and tall height, an airport must first demonstrate it has adequate infrastructure to handle the aircraft.
O'Hare International Airport continues to be a leading air cargo hub for the U.S. and world. In 2010, O'Hare was ranked 6th in the U.S. and 18th in the world by Airports Council International in terms of cargo volume.
As new runways and taxiways continue to be built under the O'Hare Modernization Program (OMP), Chicago O'Hare has the capacity and infrastructure needed to further bolster its position in the global cargo industry. OMP Runway 10C-28C, which will be an Aircraft Design Group VI capable runway, is currently under construction and is expected to be commissioned in December 2013.
The CDA's future plans for cargo facilities include a new cargo area on the northeast side of O'Hare to complement the airport's existing facilities in the Southwest Cargo area.
