A day after announcing the record-breaking launch of the 777X, Boeing today at the Dubai Airshow outlined the performance characteristics and a variety of features that will make the newest member of its twin-aisle family the largest and most fuel-efficient twin-engine commercial jetliner in aviation history.

Key innovations will make the 777X 12 per cent more fuel efficient than its competitor:  an all-new composite wing based on the innovative wing developed for the super-efficient 787 Dreamliner, aerodynamic advances such as a hybrid laminar flow control vertical tail and natural laminar flow nacelles, and all-new GE9X engines developed by GE Aviation.

In addition to unprecedented fuel efficiency and environmental responsibility, these new technologies will help the 777X deliver 10 per cent lower operating economics than the competition.

"The 777X builds on the heritage of the 777-300ER and incorporates many advanced technologies designed for the 787 to create a new standard for widebody airplanes. It will truly be a worthy successor to the 777-300ER," said Fancher.

The 777X's efficiency directly links to exceptional environmental performance. Carbon dioxide (CO(2)) is produced as fuel is consumed. This means the reductions in fuel use will result in equivalent cuts in carbon dioxide emissions.

Boeing unveiled two new models from the 777X family - the 777-8X, with approximately 350 seats and a range capability of more than 9,300 nautical miles; and the 777-9X, with approximately 400 seats and a range of more than 8,200 nautical miles.

The 777-8X competes directly with the Airbus A350-1000 while the 777-9X is in a class by itself, serving a market segment that no other airplane can, said a statement from Boeing.

"Both of these airplanes are about providing growth options and flexibility for our customers," Fancher said. "The 777-9X fits in the heart of where we think the market will go," he added.

At 233 feet, the 777X composite wing has a longer span than today's 777-300ER. Its folding, raked wingtip delivers greater efficiency, significant fuel savings and complete airport gate capability. In addition, it allows access to the entire range of gates currently accessibly by the 777-300ER.

Adding 787 technologies in the flight deck, flight controls and other systems is just the beginning. The 777X implements 787 technologies where they add value to our customers and increase commonality across Boeing's twin-aisle product family.

Boeing is exploring a number of innovations that will advance the passenger experience and create an interior passengers will prefer. For instance, the company will reposition and resize the windows to provide more ambient light inside and provide passengers with better views outside the cabin.

A new interior architecture will make the 777X cabin even more spacious, leveraging the airplane's cross-section - the widest in its class. The 777X is targeted for first delivery in 2020.-TradeArabia News Service