Boeing 737 MAX achieves 'Firm Concept' design milestone

Boeing announced (15-Nov-2012) it finished defining the broad design terms for the 737 MAX, completing the 'Firm Concept' development milestone. VP and general manager 737 program Beverly Wyse said the company has defined the significant changes needed to deliver the performance Boeing has committed to. Boeing expects to realise a 13% fuel-use reduction within the scope and schedule of the programme. Fuel-use reduction changes include new LEAP-1B engines from CFM International, a redesigned tail cone and new winglets, as well as changes to allow these features to be integrated into the overall design. Boeing also decided to incorporate limited systems changes to the 737 MAX. These include an electronic bleed air system that will be supplied by Honeywell and large-format displays, supplied by Rockwell Collins, for the flight deck of the 737 MAX. The 737 MAX flight deck will have four new large displays with significant growth capability while maintaining a common look-and-feel with the 737NG display formats that preserves commonality with training across the 737 family. Boeing is confident it will be ready to begin detailed design of the 737 MAX in mid-2013, with the aircraft on track for first delivery in 2017. [more - original PR]