Photos: (Clockwise from far left) At the United Airlines Network Operations Center in Chicago, airline employees (left and right) track the carrier’s fleet; United’s Ron Baur, left, receives an update; a monitor displays real- time arrival and departure data. BOB FERGUSON | BOEING DECEMBER 2016 | 29 passengers with free association and storytelling exercises that got them to open up about what could improve their flying experiences. Now Emery lists the cabin’s advanced design and relaxing environment as one of his favorite aspects of the Dreamliner. Typically, the structural limitations of aluminum jet airplanes cruising at fuel-conserving high altitudes require carriers to pressurize their cabins to 8,000-foot (2,400-meter) altitudes, and there’s almost zero humidity that high. But the Dreamliner’s high-strength composite fuselage allows the 787 cabin to be pressurized to a much more comfortable 6,000 feet (1,800 meters), reducing fatigue and altitude-related discomfort. Because corrosion is not a factor with composite materials, increased humidity in the cabin improves the passengers’ feeling of well-being during the flight and after landing. Bob Whittington, 787 vice president and chief engineer, said his favorite part is the Dreamliner’s wing, which changes shape in flight, saving fuel and helping reduce bumps from turbulence. But he also sees room for improvement. “The 787 is changing the face of aviation,” he said. “You’re right at the edge of technology there, but … I’d like to see us move faster and make it less expensive for operators to change technology in the cabin and flight deck.” United’s Baur also said that Boeing should be careful not to recline its seats in victory. “It’s a competitive market—Airbus also builds good airplanes, so it’s important that Boeing keeps making small improvements to help reliability and range of the airplane,” he said. “It’s got a great foundation, but don’t rely on the success of the airplane,” Baur added. “Just keep making it better. It’s good for United and for keeping up with the competition.” • KATE.E.EVERSON@BOEING.COM
Frontiers December 2016 Issue
To see the actual publication please follow the link above