Company Also Provides Structural Material For A380

The next-generation Boeing 747-8 is beginning to come together, with Boeing's announcement last week the company has contracted with Stork Fokker to help design the wing for the new plane.

Representatives with Boeing tell ANN Stork Fokker is providing the 747-8 program with engineering services on a short-term contract, commonly known as an "industry assist". The Netherlands-based aerospace company has assigned 20 engineers to work as analysts and designers assisting Boeing on several aspects of the 747-8 wing design, with much of the focus on the trailing edge.

"We are excited to have Stork Fokker assisting us on the 747-8," said Corky Townsend, chief project engineer, 747-8 program, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The company routinely has demonstrated excellent design and project-management skills on several Boeing projects, including our 747 Large Cargo Freighter program. Stork Fokker's industry-leading engineers will serve a critical role in assisting our team design the 747-8's wing."

The new wing design will provide several enhancements for the 747-8. It will increase the airplane's fuel capacity and efficiency, while at the same time reducing noise and maintenance costs.

"This extension of our working relationship recognizes the dedication, commitment and respect of the entire team of Boeing and Stork Fokker employees," said Henk Valk, vice president of marketing and sales for Stork Aerospace. "It is an honor to be part of the team working the 747-8."

With the Boeing deal, Stork Fokker can lay claim to providing parts for the world's two largest passenger-carrying commercial aircraft; the company also provides its high-tech "Glare" material for various structures on the Airbus A380 superjumbo.

The 747-8 family -- consisting of the 747-8 Intercontinental passenger airplane and the 747-8 Freighter -- was launched in November 2005 by Cargolux Airlines and Nippon Cargo Airlines.

FMI: www.storkaerospace.com/fokker, www.boeing.com