How long can a 747 be airborne?

Question

If it could be refueled in air?

Answer 1

For as long as the crew could stand it and the engines lasted.

Answer 2

for weeks probably, i dont know how long it can last without the engine being overheated though.

Answer 3

At max fuel, it could stay Airborne for up to 15-16hrs depending on wind conditions. Only Air force one 747's can be refueled mid air.

Answer 4

Depending on load and model and mission requirements, the 747SP set a non-stop record for commercial airliners in 1982 by flying from New York to Hong Kong........14+ hours, it also set a speed record as well.. The 747-400ER can fly non-stop from Sydney to Los Angeles in about 11 hours...

Answer 5

how ever long there is fuel in the tanks. Typically its 7500 miles

Answer 6

The 747 could remain in the air indefinitely if it was refueled in the air.

The main concerns would be adequate food and water for the crews and enough pilots for relief crew.  Also the supply of engine oil and hydraulic fluid (some does leak or get burned as a part of normal operations) and other mechanical defects would limit the endurance.

There are few 747s with refueling capability like Air Force One and NEACP.  The Iranians used to have one as well.

Answer 7

usually no more than 15-16 hours