Boeing 777

Description: The Boeing 777 is the first aircraft to be fully digitally designed using 3D computer graphics eliminating the need for costly full-scale mock-ups. The result is an aircraft larger than all other twin-engine and tri-engine aircraft and smaller than Boeing 747 aircraft while aimed at the medium and long range markets and bringing the low-costs benefits owned by twin-engine aircraft. The long range Boeing 777 program was launched in 1990 with an order from United Airlines and entered airlines service in 1995. The aircraft is currently available in five models: 777-200, 777-200ER (Extended Range), 777-200LR (Longer-Range), 777-300 and 777-300ER.Introducing a new wing design, more efficient and powerful GE90, PW4000 or Trent 800 engines, and lighter structures, the 777 is a fuel-efficient aircraft. Fuel savings allow to offer lower prices to airlines' customers while minimizing environmental impact.The Boeing 777 freighter is the last 777 family member scheduled to enter commercial service in the fourth quarter of 2008, introducing for the first time a cargo dedicated model in the 777 product line. Boeing expects its newest 777 to become the world's largest and most capable twin-engine freighter providing longer range and more capacity than any other aircraft in its class.The 777 freighter design will evolve from the B777-200LR long range passenger aircraft, due to enter service in 2006. 777-200LR platform was selected by its longer range and payload capacity, which will be the strength features of the new cargo airplane. With more than 222,000 pounds of payload weight and accommodating 27 standard pallets on its main deck and 10 in its lower cargo hold, the 777 freighter will fly 5,200 nautical miles (9,700 km).The operating costs and trip cost will be lower than any large cargo aircraft. The General Electric GE90-115B engine was selected to power the newest 777. In May 2005, Boeing released the 777 Freighter was going to be powered by the General Electric's GE90-110B1L engine. The Boeing company expects to ensure world's freighter market leadership through the successful 747 and the planned 777 freighters well into the 21st century.Boeing and Air Canada announced an important agreement on 25 April 2005 to renew the fleet of the Canadian carrier including 36 Boeing 777 jetliners and up to 60 Boeing 787 Dreamliners. The agreement was valued at $6 billion at list prices. Air Canada agreed to buy 18 firm order 777s plus purchase rights on 18 additional aircraft. The 777 models were not yet determined but it was anticipated to consist of 777-300ER, 777-200LR Worldliner and 777 freighters with deliveries beginning in 2006. The carrier also ordered 14 787-8 and 787-9 Dreamliners and took options on another 46 787 aircraft with deliveries beginning in 2010. Final agreement announcement was expected by mid-2005. On 18 June 2005, Air Canada cancelled the order due to conflicts with the employees which were undermining the company's wealth. Finally, the purchase contract was signed on November 9, 2005. Boeing 777 deliveries were delayed to 2007 while 787 deliveries were due to commence in 2010 as originally planned. On April 2006, 2007, Boeing and Air Canada agreed to cancel two 777 freighter orders.On May 19, 2005, French carrier Air France placed an order for five Boeing 777 freighters plus options on three additional airplanes. Air France will replace its current fleet of Boeing 747-200F beginning in the fourth quarter of 2008. The 777 freighter is expected to become the world's largest twin engine cargo aircraft available on the commercial range by 2008. The 777 freighter program was officially launched on 24 May 2005.On 20 November 2005 at Dubai Air Show Emirates placed an order for 42 Boeing 777 airplanes plus additional 20 aircraft option which was deemed as the largest deal for 777 airplanes ever. The firm order aircraft powered by GE90-115B engines were valued at $9.7 billion. The purchase contract included 24 777-300ERs, 10 777-200LRs and 8 777 Freighters with first aircraft delivery due in 2007. The engine contract, including OnPoint Solution service agreement for overhaul and maintenance, awarded to General Electric was valued at $2.5 billion.On 19 July 2006, Boeing and India-based Flyington Freighters signed an agreement for the purchase of four widebody 777 freighters. The deal was announced at the Farnborough Air Show in England.On 18 October 2006, China Southern Airlines placed an order for six Boeing 777 Freighters with first delivery anticipated in fourth quarter 2008.On 7 November 2006 FedEx Express ordered 15 Boeing 777 freighters and took options on an additional 15 of the airplanes. First deliveries are due in 2009.