Rockford (WIFR) -- Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) hosted a test flight for a brand-new Boeing 747-8 Freighter Friday. RFD is working to be one of the first airports cargo carriers bring the new widebody freighter to after it is delivered this year.

RFD was chosen for the test flight because it was the first Chicago-area airport to get a key approval to handle regular 747-8 operations. Only 15 U.S. airports have received the modification of standards from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration for the 747-8.

"With the help of the community and taxpayers, we've built a world-class airport with great infrastructure. Our strategic plan includes using that investment to create cargo jobs and revenue for the region," said Bharat Puri, chairman of the Greater Rockford Airport Authority Board of Commissioners. "The cargo industry will take note of today's test flight and continue to look closely at RFD."

Only 58 nautical miles from Chicago O'Hare International Airport, RFD has a 10,000-foot primary runway with a Category II/III Instrument Landing System, 24/7 air-traffic control with uncongested airspace. RFD has significantly cheaper landing fees and no parking fees for cargo planes.

RFD's new International Cargo Center can park 747-8s in prime, runway-adjacent ramp space. RFD officials are in continued discussions with international cargo operators who are looking for a more efficient and less expensive alternative to the crowded Chicago airports.

The 747-8 Freighter provides air cargo companies improved efficiency. According to Boeing, it can carry 16 percent more revenue cargo volume than its predecessor for the same trip cost.

RFD has previously hosted several older variants of the 747 Freighter flown by international carriers, as well the Boeing Dreamlifter and Antonov An-124.

"We've said numerous times that we can handle any aircraft operating today, including the Boeing 747-8. Now we've proven it again," said Ken Ryan, RFD's director of cargo.