Boeing's struggle to develop the Sonic Cruiser is puzzling. Why isn't it pursuing aggressively the development of the much more efficient blended wing body (BWB)? Sure, there are technical issues, but no real show stoppers.
Even if it starts with the development of a 200-250 passenger model, I believe this would be effective competition to the Airbus A380, at least from a travel cost view, which seems to be what airlines really want. This would show that Boeing is serious about staying in the airliner business and is willing to be at the true forefront of technology.
This would also put Boeing in an excellent position to develop a complete family of aircraft and eventually deliver effective neutralisation of the A380, which should really be the last conventional design the world needs or sees.
I consider the Sonic Cruiser to be a conventional aircraft as it offers very little compared to today's airliners. With global warming knocking at our doors, Boeing must show bold leadership and develop a green machine that will help the world, the airline industry, and itself.
Unless Boeing takes the initiative, it may be surprised to find that Airbus's future replacement for the A300 may be a BWB.
Paul Nunes
Ontario, Canada
Source: Flight International
