Wed, Feb 15, 2012
Planemaker Says Re-Engined Airplane On Track For 2017 Entry
Into Service
The final phase of wind tunnel testing is scheduled to
begin on the 737 MAX program this week. "Wind tunnel testing is on
the critical design path of the program," said Michael Teal, chief
project engineer and deputy program manager, 737 MAX program.
"Based on previous work in the wind tunnel, we are confident this
final phase of testing will substantiate our predictions of the
aerodynamic performance of the airplane."
Testing will begin at QinetiQ's test facility in Farnborough,
England, where engineers will substantiate the predicted low-speed
performance of the 737 MAX on takeoff and landing. A FTSE250
company, QinetiQ uses its domain knowledge to provide technical
advice to customers in the global aerospace, defense and security
markets. Testing also will be completed at the Boeing Transonic
Wind Tunnel in Seattle to substantiate the forecast of the
high-speed performance of the airplane.
The models used for Next-Generation 737 wind tunnel testing,
with modifications made to the aft fuselage, struts and nacelles,
in addition to the new engine, will be used for the tests. Test
completion in mid-2012 is a major step toward firm configuration of
the 737 MAX. "This final phase of wind tunnel testing confirms that
we are on track to complete our design goals and deliver the 737
MAX to customers beginning in 2017," said Teal.
To date, the 737 MAX has received more than 1,000 orders and
commitments from 15 customers. (Image provided by Boeing).
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