Boeing is ready to respond to customer demands and launch the stretched derivative of the top-selling B747-400, the 747X, and give airlines a flexible alternative to the Airbus A3XX
Boeing believes that the market for a larger than 747-400 is small, but recognises that the market exists. The 747-400X is the Boeing answer to calls for a more capable 747-400. The current Boeing 747-400X design has an increased takeoff weight of 412,770 kg (910,000 lbs). This takeoff weight increase would allow operators to fly about 805k (435nm) further or carry 6,800 kg (15,000 lbs) more payload, either in the form of extra cargo or a full load of 416 passengers.
The derivative would be created by incorporating the existing, stronger freighter wing, strengthening the body and landing gear, and adding one auxiliary fuel tank in the forward cargo-hold area, with an option for a second tank. For those occasions when the 747-400X full-range capability is not needed, operators could remove the tank, freeing up additional space for cargo.
Bill Droppelman, 747 brand manager, says: "The 747-400X will ensure that a full load of passengers and their baggage could be carried year-round, even during adverse weather and wind conditions when airlines occasionally "weight-limit" airplanes, meaning passengers and/or cargo are left on the ground. The added payload of the 747-400X would allow carriers to always carry full passenger loads on longer-range, non-stop, high-demand routes."
The 747-400X interior will continue to have three-class seating for 416 passengers, with a typical layout of 23 first-class seats in the unique "Zone A" first-class forward section; 40 business seats on the upper deck (four abreast with a single aisle) and 38 on the main deck (seven abreast with two aisles). And Economy seating for 315 passengers (10 abreast with two aisles).
By utilising the successful 777 style interior with its unique overhead pivot bins passengers would enjoy 15% more volume for carry-on items, including roll-aboard bags, laptop computers and other luggage. One area that would see a dramatic increase in stowage volume is the 747-400X upper deck, where passengers would gain more than 100% more space for carry-on bags.
The 747-400X flight deck would have a number of up-to-date features but maintain the same pilot type rating as the 747-400. This allows pilots to fly both airplanes, resulting in lower crew training and operational costs. The -400X flight deck upgrades include:
* State-of-the-art liquid crystal "flat panel" primary flight displays, which replace conventional cathode ray tubes and improve clarity and reliability.
* Upgraded flight management computers with greater capacity, memory and speed, providing more operational capabilities for the airline.
* An all-new vertical situation display that enhances the pilot¹s situational awareness during landing. This sets a new precedent for the industry.
* A noise control package that would make the -400X cockpit comparable to the 777. This responds to pilot input for an enhanced work environment.
* Expanded use of the global positioning satellite to allow common instrument approach procedures,
* An integrated liquid crystal standby flight display, with solid-state electronics, which replaces three mechanical instruments and increases reliability.
* New multifunction displays that provide pilots and mechanics more flexibility in tailoring information to their individual needs.
* Improved datalink messaging capability, which is similar to e-mail between the airplane and the ground.
* An overall reduction in flight deck parts.
Boeing will match the Airbus 3XX target of 2005.
Source: Flight Daily News
