A better understanding is emerging of the position Boeing's new 7E7 hopes to assume in the market, Geoff Hearn looks at the progress of the 7E7 Dreamliner and how its costs are likely to compare with the aircraft in its target market. The design of the 7E7 family has been refined over the past three months and new clarity reached in the definition of the capabilities of the two prime family members, the baseline 7E7 and a 7E7 Stretch. The baseline 7E7, at a length of 186ft (56.7m), will carry about 200 passengers in three classes of seating on routes as long as 6,600nm (12,200km). With an increased length of 202ft (61.6m), the 7E7 Stretch will accommodate 250 passengers in three-class seating. Its range capability will be 8,000nm. "These two airplanes create a dynamic family that is very interesting to the airlines of the world," says Mike Bair, senior vice-president of the 7E7 programme. "We are now working with more than 50 airlines. We meet with them to understand their requirements and share our progress."
展开▼
