Boeing has quietly made a modification to the design of its 777-8, increasing
the length of the aircraft's fuselage by 3.5 feet.
This has, in turn, boosted the 777-8s passenger capacity from 384 to 395 (assuming a two-class
configuration). Its range has also been bumped up to 8,745 nautical miles - 15 more than what
was previously published. Let’s look at this interesting little update in today’s video!
Together with the 777-9, the aircraft forms part of Boeing's 777X program, which the manufacturer
hopes will help it better compete with the likes of the Airbus A350-1000. With its unique folding
wingtips and massive GE9X engines, the 777X is certainly an attention-grabbing aircraft. However,
the project has been dogged by delays, already running more than five years behind schedule.
Sales of the 777-8 have been sluggish, which might explain the modification to its design.
To date, only 24 of the total 777X orders are for the -8 variant. This pales in comparison
to the 304 777-9 airframes ordered. It’s also less than half of the 55 777-8Fs on ordert.
The 777-9 will be capable of carrying up to 426 passengers in a two-class configuration,
over 40 more than the 777-8's original design.
This additional capacity has proven popular among airlines.
All 24 777-8 orders have come from UAE-based carriers - eight from
Etihad Airways and 16 from Emirates. However, an additional 16 777Xs on Boeing's order books in
June 2023 prompted speculation that the airline had converted its 777-8 orders to the 777-9.
After Emirates, Qatar Airways is currently due to be the next largest operator of the 777X,
with 74 on order, followed by Singapore Airlines with 31.
Of the two 777X passenger variants, the 777-9 is expected to enter into service in 2025,
with the first delivery of the 777-8 not happening until 2027. Boeing had originally
hoped the aircraft would be selected by Qantas for its Project Sunrise flights from Australia
to London and New York. However, the Aussie carrier opted instead for the Airbus A350-1000.
Over the past five years, Boeing has suffered from the well-documented impacts of two 737 MAX
crashes and the type's subsequent grounding. It has also been dealing with delivery issues around
its 787 aircraft, and, of course, issues brought about by the pandemic. However,
earlier this year, the manufacturer began posting healthy profits once more.
The 777X program will be instrumental to Boeing's future success, and these subtle
modifications to the design of the 777-8 may help the smaller of the two aircraft
to close the significant order gap with its larger sibling, the 777-9.
For now, it remains to be seen if the increased capacity and range can make
up for the delayed delivery of the aircraft.
But What do you think of the subtle update to the Boeing 777-8? Do you think
the modification will make the aircraft more popular among potential customers?
Share your thoughts by commenting below.
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