Boeing hopes that a final evaluation test planned for 20 May will resolve the long-running issue with the European Joint Aviation Authorities (JAA) over exit-limit maximum seating for the next-generation 737-700 and -800.
The US company originally configured the -800 with a maximum load of 189 seats, while the -700 was planned to accommodate 149. Despite US Federal Aviation Administration approval of these configurations through the use of Boeing's "grandfather rights" on the 737 series, the JAA insists on design changes.
Approval of changes is vital to Boeing, in view of the number of sales to European-based inclusive-tour and charter operators which intend to use the aircraft's maximum seating capacity.
The company faced two options: a redesign of the overwing escape hatch or the relocation of flight-attendant seating. At the end of 1996, it chose to modify the hatch design, and says: "We are exploring an overwing hatch enhancement, which would provide a quicker-opening hatch. We are in the process of designing and validating the hatch by building a mock-up for JAA demonstration in May."
The design was produced after meetings with the FAA and JAA to "-define the requirements for necessary seating capacity above 145/180. We have reviewed the criteria and have proposed configuration changes that will allow the JAA to grant seating capacity of 149/189," says Boeing.
Source: Flight International
