The Boeing 777 is on top of its market. It has relegated the A340 to minimal orders already. But here comes the A350XWB challenge in 4 years time. If this A350XWB airliner starts commercial service, it will drastically reduce the 777's new order rates. Unless Boeing makes a 777-8NG, or a new 7107 that will stradle the 777 and 747-400 market.
What would make a 777-8NG competitive to the A350XWB?
1. New engines - GEnx technology to the GE90-115B that may result in 5% better fuel burn
2. New composite wings - lighter and more efficient that may result in 5% better efficiency, that may be used later on the new 7107
3. Attic utilization - to increase seat numbers thereby reducing seat-mile costs
4. Fuselage modification - to decrease weight and better aerodynamics
5. UAV technology for better gate to gate efficiency
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