Boeing's solution for the flightcrew rest zone on the 777 is an overhead compartment installed above the passenger cabin in the forward fuselage, and is already in service on existing variants. The rest area includes two large sleeping berths, two business-class seats and an area for optional amenities such as a closet, sink or lavatory.
Crew rest facilities are a vital part of the ultra-long-range philosophy, as these flights are operated with at least four pilots - two captains and two first officers: one operating crew and one augmenting crew. Generally, following the take-off flown by the operating crew, the augmenting crew rest for several hours. They then relieve the operating crew, who rest before returning to the flightdeck for descent and landing.
Last year, Boeing received US and European approval for the 777's flightcrew rest area to be occupied during taxi, take-off and landing, freeing premium seats in the main cabin for revenue passengers.
Source: Flight International
