Boeing will decide within the next six months whether to develop an all-new composite wing for the Next Generation 737 family.
The move, if sanctioned, would see 737NGs with composite wings roll off the Renton, Washington, production line by 2004.
The wing would closely resemble the external dimensions and overall aerodynamic shape of the current Next Generation wing, but would have modifications made possible by the use of advanced composite manufacturing techniques, says Boeing Phantom Works president George Muellner.
The main aim of the initiative is cost reduction, says Muellner. "We are looking at the 737 in particular because of its high production rate, which would enable us to recover the cost of the change fairly rapidly."
Technology for the wing initiative has come together from several research efforts, including NASA's Advanced Subsonic Transport project and a stitched resin film infusion process developed by the Phantom Works.
Assuming Boeing approves the move around January next year, flight tests could begin as early as 2003, says Muellner.
Source: Flight International
