An uncertain future could await the Boeing 747. According to an Associated Press report, the glamorous double-decker jet that was once the Queen of the Skies may be nearing the end of the line. One of the reasons is that most carriers preferred newer two-engine planes. Unlike the four-engine Boeing 747, two-engine planes consume less fuel but could still fly the same distance.

The report also cited the seats as part of the problem. A Boeing 747 has anywhere from 380 to 560 seats. This could be a moneymaker at full capacity. However, the USD 200,000 cost of jet fuel would be difficult to spread among fewer passengers.

Despite these, Reuters reported that Boeing Co still reported a 12% rise in its quarterly profit just two days ago. Revenue also rose 11% to USD 22.13 billion. Core earnings also rose 16% to USD 1.80 per share USD 1.55 a share in the same period last year. The figures topped analysts' expectations, Reuters reported.