Cargolux's first Boeing-747-8 commercial flight, into the U.S, landed at Huntsville International Airport (HSV) on Monday, November 21, 2011. This aircraft offers significant benefits in terms of increased payload, reduced fuel burn as well as noise and emissions reductions. Cargolux is the launch customer of the B747-8.

'We are excited to see the B747-8 serve Huntsville International Airport. Cargolux has been a part of our airport for 20 years and this represents their commitment to provide world-class service not only to Huntsville but the entire world,' stated Rick Tucker, Executive Director, Huntsville International Airport.

The first two aircraft of this type joined the Cargolux fleet in October 2011. Cargolux is one of the leading cargo airlines worldwide, operating scheduled and charter services on a network covering all continents. Cargolux serves Huntsville International Airport, Panalpina's North American air cargo hub.

Huntsville International Airport received certification by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to accommodate the Boeing 747-8, which is 18.3 feet longer & 13 feet wider in wingspan than the current 747 models. The August 17th certification approved the airport's request, which allows it to accommodate the aircraft on its 10,000-foot runway and 12,600-foot runway ' the second-longest in the Southeast- as well as all associated taxiways.

HSV is among a current group of airports approved to accommodate this type of aircraft, including Chicago O'Hare, John F. Kennedy, Atlanta and Miami. Huntsville International Airport has accommodated numerous types of large-body aircraft, including the Antonov AN-124, a test of the Boeing 747-8, and two Boeing 747-LCF (Dreamlifters).