US planemaker Boeing proposed extended 777X aircraft version to its customers, hoping to beat competition from A380, said people familiar to the matter. The new model would be called 777-10X. It would have four more rows of seats than 777-9X and would carry around 450-470 passengers. Because of advanced aerodynamics and new propulsion systems it could be more fuel efficient than double-decker Airbus A380 that can seat between 489 and 615 travelers.
“We are always evaluating technologies, airplane configurations and market needs,” said Boeing’s representative Doug Alder. “While no decisions have been made, we will continue to study 777X derivatives and seek customer input to develop products that provide the most value for customers.” The company has started discussions with several airlines, mainly targeting Gulf carriers. Emirates Airlines is a particular customer of interset, having already ordered 289 Boeing 777X family aircraft.
The Boeing 777X family currently consists of two airliners. The Boeing 777-8X has a capacity of 350-375 seats,while 777-9X seats around 400-425 passengers. It has a range to fly 7,500 nautical miles (14,000 kilometers) with a list price of around $400 million.
News & Image Sources: Internet.