Boeing (NYSE: BA) successfully completed high-speed taxi tests on the first 747-8 Intercontinental today. This is the last in a series of functional tests planned in preparation for first flight.

"The pilots report the airplane performed well," said Elizabeth Lund, vice president and general manager of the 747 program. "We'll analyze the test data, but we're confident that the airplane is ready for first flight and ready to enter the flight test phase of the program."

During the testing, the airplane reached a top speed of approximately 90 knots (103 mph, 167 kph), and the pilots lifted the nose gear from the pavement. Video highlights of the taxi testing will be posted to www.boeing.com and www.newairplane.com when they are available.

A live webcast of the first flight of the 747-8 Intercontinental will be available at: http://www.newairplane.com/747/incredible/#/webcast.