★ FAMOUSAviation history

GE Flying Testbed

The lopsided 747 — flies with one giant prototype engine

Tail number N747GF

Boeing 747-400, the type GE Flying Testbed is built on
Type photo · Photo: Wikimedia Commons

The story

GE Aerospace's flying engine laboratory — a 747-400 that carries prototype engines on a strengthened inboard pylon. When you see a 747 with one engine comically larger than the other three, this is it. Engines for the 777X and beyond earned their wings here before any airliner flew them.

Fun fact

The GE9X it tested is the most powerful jet engine ever built — its fan is wider than a 737's entire fuselage.

Quick answers

What is the tail number of GE Flying Testbed?

N747GF (Boeing 747-400).

What kind of aircraft is GE Flying Testbed?

Boeing 747-400.

Is it still flying?

Yes, it is still active.

The type

More aviation history

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