Boeing is pushing back the projected entry into service date of the 767-400ERX to 2003, as American Airlines' interest in the proposed extended range development cools in the face of softening traffic and yields.
Initial delivery of the 767-400ERX had tentatively been targeted for March 2002. It is understood this has slipped back a further 12 months. Boeing is looking primarily to American Airlines to launch the planned development of the new -400 stretch.
The Dallas-based carrier says it has "looked at and talked about" the aircraft as a "possibility" for use on routes from the USA to Europe and South America.
Industry sources say the move to delay the -400ERX is in response to the airline's concern over growing excess transatlantic capacity and falling yields. Passenger revenue for the final quarter of last year fell by 3%. American's troubles have been compounded by recent industrial action by pilots.
Boeing is planning to increase the -400's maximum take-off weight to 211,100kg (465,000lb) and extend its range by 1,110km (600nm) with the addition of 7,580 litres (2,000USgal) of fuel in the horizontal stabiliser. The aircraft will require an increased 68,000lb (303kN )-thrust powerplant.
General Electric is proposing to American an advanced version of the CF6-80C2, with improved turbine and new hybrid composite fan blades. Pratt & Whitney is pitching the new PW4068 growth version of its 2.39m (94in)-diameter fan PW4000 series. Rolls-Royce is offering the planned Trent 600.
American is interested in the aircraft as a potential modest growth replacement for some of its older 767-200s. The airline operates 22 -200ERs and eight shorter range -200s. It also has 45 -300ERs, the last four of which were delivered at the end of last year.
The carrier is focusing more immediate attention on inducting its first two 777-200ERs into service. The aircraft are initially being used between Dallas/Fort Worth and London Gatwick and will replace MD-11s on the Osaka route.
American has ordered 34 777s and is to receive nine more by the end of the year. It recently received the first of 100 737-800s.
Source: Flight International
