More Efficient Engines And Reduced Drag

From Boeing...

Boeing is offering airlines more range on its longer-range 777 passenger airplanes, and enhanced performance overall, thanks to engine efficiency improvements and design changes that reduce wind drag and the airplane's weight.

The enhancements for the Boeing 777-300ER (Extended Range) will become available during 2005's fourth quarter. They'll be offered on new airplanes and for retrofit on airplanes already in service.

With the improvements, the airplane's maximum range would increase by 175 nautical miles to 7 ,880 nautical miles (14,594 kilometers). Its center of gravity limits will also rise, providing greater cargo loading capability when the airplane operates at its highest gross weight.

"These enhancements increase the 777-300ER's value and give our customers the increased range and cargo loading flexibility they want," said Lars Andersen, Longer-Range 777 program manager. "The efficiency, economics, and capabilities of this airplane are unsurpassed."

Specifically, the enhancements include improved fuel efficiency from the General Electric [NYSE:GE] GE90-115B engines, the most powerful on any commercial jet, drag reducing aerodynamic improvements such as wing vortex generator changes and ram air system modifications, and interior changes that reduce weight.

As part of the package, airlines can choose an innovative option that stores food and beverage carts directly above the passenger cabin rather than on the main deck. That would provide airlines with more main-deck space for revenue-generating seats.

Boeing is applying several of the enhancements to the 777-200LR (Longer Range) airplane currently under development. That will be the world's longest range commercial airplane, with a range capability of 9,420 nautical miles (17,446 kilometers). The first 777-200LR will be delivered during the first quarter of 2006.

Offering airlines additional flexibility in serving the nonstop routes that passengers demand, the longer-range 777s have accumulated 76 orders from seven customers. Five 777-300ERs have been delivered to date. International Lease Finance Corp. and Air France received the first in April.

FMI: www.boeing.com