Boeing has stretched the 777-8 passenger variant’s fuselage length by 3.6 feet, aligning it with the freighter variant and therefore also boosting passenger capacity and range.
The most recent specification data from Boeing showcases the alteration, which includes the stretching of the twin-jet by 1.1 meters (3 feet 6 inches). This modification brings the overall length of the aircraft to 70.9 meters, compared to its previous length of 69.8 meters. According to Journalist Max Kingsley-Jones, the new fuselage section might be positioned at the rear of the aircraft.
With this extra space, passenger capacity has also increased, allowing for the addition of 11 more seats in a two-class configuration. The passenger capacity rises from 384 to 395 in a two-class configuration. This enables airlines to cater to a broader range of travel demands.
According to a Boeing spokesperson, this design alteration took place with the launch of the 777-8 Freighter in January 2022. Interestingly, while not a recent modification, it appears that its discovery has garnered attention only recently.
It’s worth noting that the extension was prompted by the 777-8 Freighter variant, which was introduced in January 2022 with a longer fuselage than its passenger counterpart. In addition, the maximum range has increased from 8,730 nautical miles (16,170 km) to 8,745 nautical miles (16,190 km).
This brings the passenger and freighter variants of the 777-8 into line with each other. It also makes the passenger version more competitive with other long-range aircraft such as the Airbus A350-1000.
In terms of specifications, the provisional maximum take-off weight for the 777-8 Freighter stands at 365,141 kilograms (805,000 pounds). However, Boeing is yet to release comparable data for the passenger model. Powered by the GE Aerospace GE9X engines, the 777-8 passenger variant has so far received firm orders for eight aircraft from Etihad Airways, according to data from Cirium.
Additionally, Emirates has expressed interest in acquiring 11 aircraft through a letter of intent. According to Boeing’s listing, Emirates have firm orders for 115 777Xs. The breakdown of this number by variants is not currently specified.
Boeing’s priority in advancing the freighter model has led to the uncertainty surrounding the timeline for the 777-8 passenger variant. While the company is diligently working toward achieving Type Inspection Authorization (TIA) for Federal Aviation Administration certification flight testing for the 777-9. The debut of the 777-8 passenger variant remains undisclosed.
Boeing is poised to deliver the first 777-9 in 2025, with freighter deliveries expected to commence in 2027.