Boeing expects to start extended twin operations (ETOPS) testing of its 777-300ER aircraft around August/September this year and plans to include eight 330min diversion flight tests in the programme.
The ETOPS assessment will cover 220h of tests and aims to prepare the 777 for amended US FAA rules, still under development, for ETOPS and very long-range services.
Speaking at Paris yesterday, Captain Frank Santoni, Boeing chief test pilot for the 777, said the manufacturer would be applying for 207min ETOPS certification, but added: "We're going to test this aircraft based upon these new rules. We will be ready for those rules when they come to fruition."
Boeing gives a figure of 7,400nm (13,700km) for the range of the 777-300ER. The eight 330min engine-out ETOPS flights will be part of a total of 40 ETOPS demonstration flights conducted by two test aircraft. The manufacturer has laid out an extensive global route structure for the ETOPS testing.
Source: Flight Daily News
