Boeing is completing product definition work on the proposed freighter variant of the 777-200LR to enable it to finalise the configuration this year. If launched before mid-2005, it could fly by the end of 2007 and enter service a year later.
Since recently receiving authority to offer the new variant (Flight International, 23-29 November 2004), Boeing has opted for the "777F" designation "to simplify things", says 777 derivatives programme manager Lars Andersen. "We're trying this year to finish the product development portion and finalise the configuration."
Apart from obvious changes associated with the new freight role, such as the installation of a 3.05 x 3.6m (120 x 141in) main deck cargo door on the port side of the fuselage aft of the wing, the 777F will also have a strengthened centre wingbox and cargo floor support to handle the higher loads and a cargo-handling system. The floor itself will also be made from conventional aluminium in place of composites "for robustness", according to Andersen, who says the change was requested by operators.
The 777F will also have a 9g rigid cargo barrier aft of the standard flightdeck bulkhead. The intervening supernumerary area will be baselined for three business-class seats, two bunks, galley and lavatory, although there will be sufficient space for as many as 14 seats for some live loads "such as trainers and horses", says Andersen.
Maximum revenue payload is expected to be 101t (222,000lb) across ranges up to 9,630km (5,200nm) with a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of 340,200kg. The aircraft also has an extended- range capability of 9,630km with loading restrictions at a higher MTOW of 243,600kg. The removal of passenger-related items such as windows and doors also helps reduce operating empty weight to around 138,000kg, compared with 154,200kg for the -200LR.
GUY NORRIS / SEATTLE
Source: Flight International
