The Boeing Co.’s first 747-8 Freighter is taking shape inside the Everett factory.

Workers recently loaded the forward and aft fuselage sections to join with the wing and center section, the company said in a statement Tuesday.

“It is exciting to see this airplane taking shape,” said Mo Yahyavi, vice president and general manager of the 747 Program. “This final body join provides us the first real look at the size of the 747-8 Freighter.”

The 747-8 Freighter is expected to make its first flight later this year.

Boeing has won 78 orders from leading cargo operators for the new 747-8 Freighter