The Boeing 737 MAX will build on the 737's popularity and reliability while delivering greater fuel efficiency.
"The team has a firm plan in place to incorporate all the changes necessary to realise a 13% fuel-use reduction within the scope and schedule of the programme," says Beverly Wyse, vice president and general manager Boeing 737 programme.
Fuel-use reduction changes include new LEAP-1B engines (which feature composite fan blades and containment case) from CFM International, a redesigned tail cone and Advanced Technology winglets.
| The 737 MAX remains on track for first delivery in 2017. Now we are focused on the finer details of the configuration and we are confident we'll be ready to begin detailed design in mid-2013. |
| Michael Teal, chief project engineer, Boeing 737 MAX |
The team also has defined the aerodynamic lines for the 737 MAX.
Boeing confirms that firm configuration of the aircraft is planned for 2013, with first flight in 2016.
- There is growing demand for eco-efficient aircraft. According to Airbus' Global Market Forecast for 2012-2031, air passenger traffic will grow at an average annual rate of 4.7% in the next 20 years, during which time some 10,350 aircraft will be replaced by new, more efficient models. Composites will be used to reduce aircraft weight, thus increasing fuel efficiency. (See Growing demand for eco-efficient aircraft and Aero engines lose weight thanks to composites (Part 1).)
