Boeing is preparing for more fuel-efficient future by developing two new twin-aisle aircraft designed to help long-haul airlines reduce their costs.
Following the recent launch of the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner and 747-8 Intercontinental, plus the expected debut of the 787-9 in 2014, Boeing is now working on two more wide-body options – the 787-10 and 777-X. Both new aircraft types are expected to enter service by the end of the current decade.
Speaking at the AAPA Assembly of Presidents in Kuala Lumpur on Friday, Boeing’s Senior Vice President of Sales for Asia Pacific, Dinesh Keskar, said fuel-efficiency was now the main factor driving the development of aircraft. “Maximizing fuel economy is key,” he said.
The 777-X will be a more fuel-efficient version of the current 777-300ER. Keskar said Boeing was currently “engaging with customers, analyzing risks, costs and schedules”, with a view to launching the aircraft before the end of the decade. He added that Boeing is in discussions with all three engine-makers – GE, EA and Rolls-Royce – to power the new aircraft.
The 787-10 meanwhile, is the planned extended version of the Dreamliner, expected to seat in excess of 300 passengers.
