Boeing 747-8F prototype registered

[The AvgasDinosaur]

For your info Boeing have registered N747EX for c/n (MSN) 35808 the first 747-8 on 20th October 2008
N-Number Results (http://registry.faa.gov/aircraftinquiry/NNumSQL.asp?NNumbertxt=747EX&cmndfind.x=15&cmndfind.y=18)
Curiously and in spite of statements from Boeing to the contrary they appear to be continuing with customer numbers it is registered as an 8R7 (Cargolux) surely if anything it should be an 8R7F ?
Your comments and observations as ever much appreciated.
Can anyone confirm that Cathay Pacific's 8F are to be built without Side Cargo Door ?
Be lucky
David

[SMOC]

Without the side cargo door, you cant get 10FT high pallets in, there's no way CX would not have a side cargo door, No nose door would be more likely. :ok:

[The AvgasDinosaur]

The build order list I was looking at had "(SCD)" in the model number for all except the CX ones. I just wondered if the no SCD would indicate a lighter version ergo more payload or range. I understand that the 8F lacks range compared with late model 744ERFs.
Thanks for your time and trouble, your comments are appreciated.
Be lucky
David