Wednesday, June 17, 2009

777-8NG - Competitive Upgrading Of The Boeing 777


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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