Sir - I read with interest the article "MDC flies new concept demonstrator" (Flight International, 13-19 August, P26), about the 6%-scale model of a blended-wing-body aircraft (which should be capable of carrying up to 800 passengers) designed, built and flown for McDonnell Douglas (MDC) by Stanford University, California.
Does, then, the article "Jumbo Challenge" (Flight International, 11-17 June, P41) hide the reality behind Boeing's decision to cancel its proposed growth 747-500/600? It must have been aware of the nature of all of MDC's business before and after acquisition.
With Boeing's refusal to comment on plans for the Long Beach site, is it building a "super jumbo", but complying with European Commission approval by making it under the MDC name and location?
Nicholas Mills
Halifax, Yorkshire, UK
Source: Flight International
