Guy Norris/SEATTLE
Boeing is expected to unveil details at Farnborough of a revamped, extended-range version of the 757-200 - dubbed the -200ERX - which could be launched later this year.
Boeing is actively offering it to several scheduled and charter airlines, including Continental Airlines, which is believed to be a leading launch contender. Unlike several previous extended range -200 studies which evaluated a fuel tank in the tail, the new -ERX builds directly on structural changes designed for the -300 stretch, as well as fuel system modifications devised for the US Air Force's military VIP version, the C-32A.
"From a product development standpoint it is mature," says marketing management vice president, Mike Bair who adds that the -200ERX is designed to offer 925-1,300km (500-700nm) extra range. Configured for 201 passengers in a two class layout Boeing says the aircraft will open up new 757 city-pairs such as London-Orlando, Frankfurt-Chicago and Chicago-Honolulu. Bair says scheduled carriers likely to focus on maximising higher revenue business seating include Continental which is evaluating a 170-seat arrangement.
"We are out offering proposals right now, and it could enter service by 2002 with a development time of around 24 months," he adds. Features of the -200ERX include the use of the strengthened -300 wing and landing gear, as well as discrete parts of the strengthened fuselage structure. The aircraft would be offered with between two and four 5,300 litre (1,400US gal) auxiliary fuel tanks based on the design developed for the C-32A.
It will have a take-off gross weight of 122,660kg (270,180lb), compared to 111,400kg for the standard -200. The charter configured aircraft, with over 220 seats, would only be offered with "one or two" extra tanks.
Source: Flight International