Changes
Approximately 35 percent of the 777-300ER and 777-200LR Worldliner design has been changed from earlier 777 models, although passengers won't notice it.
- Each wing is being extended by 6.5 feet by adding raked wingtips to improve overall aerodynamic efficiency. The raked wingtips help reduce takeoff field length, increase climb performance and reduce fuel burn.
- The body, wing, empennage and nose gear of the airplanes were strengthened and new main landing gear, wheels, tires and brakes were installed.
- The struts and nacelles were modified to accommodate the significantly higher-thrust engines.
- Tail-strike protection is standard on both models. This software feature helps prevent inadvertent scraping of the tail on the runway at takeoff or landing by commanding elevator movement if the airplane's attitude exceeds pre-set limits.
- The airplanes are powered exclusively by the General Electric GE90-115BL engine, the world's largest and most powerful commercial jet engine, producing 115,000 pounds of thrust (derated to 110,000 lbs. on the 777-200LR).
Economics
The Boeing 777-200LR Worldliner and 777-300ER have seat-mile costs that are 17 to 19 percent lower than the A340-500 and A340-600 models.
Fuel burn is considerably lower -- 20 percent lower per seat for the longer-range 777s -- when compared to the A340-500 and A340-600.
The 777 also uses advanced technology that lowers maintenance costs and makes maintenance more efficient.
For example, on a typical ultra-long-range route, such as Los Angeles-Singapore, the 777-200LR can carry 21 more passengers and 22,700 lbs. of additional cargo, compared to the A340-500. The twin-engine 777-200LR also consumes nearly 6,500 gallons of fuel less per flight.