involves using advanced design and manufacturing techniques to "hold the line on price and progressively reduce the operating cost of its transports" (Proctor, 1994, pp. 48-49). The 777 family of aircraft are an integral part of that plan. In order to meet continuously changing market conditions, the Boeing Company has designed several different models. The "A-market" and "B-market" 777s are available in a total of six gross weights, and can carry between 305 and 375 passengers from 3,550 to 7,380 nautical miles (Proctor, 1994, pp. 48-49). In addition, an all-economy configuration is available which can carry 440 passengers.
At first glance, the 777 appears similar to other Boeing transports. It has lightly swept wings, a standard tail, and two wing-mounted turbofan engines (Gottschalk, 94, pp. 50, 52). The initial model, the Boeing 777-200, was introduced in May 1995 (Main, 1992, pp. 102-104, 108, 112, 116-117). It has an overall length of about 209 feet and a fuselage diameter of 20 feet 4 inches. It offers two-class seating for 328 passengers. The Boeing 777-200's standard take-off weight is 506,000 lbs., although its structural design allows for an optional maximum take-off weight of 515,000 lbs. The aircraft's range is 4,950 nautical miles (Tortolano, 1991, pp. 122-134).
In addition to the 777-200, Boeing is also developing both high performance and stretched versions of the aircraft. For example, a longer-range, higher-weight model is planned for delivery by the end of 1996 (Tortolano, 1991, pp. 122-134). The B-market 777 transport will have the same physical dimensions as the 777-200; however, it will employ higher thrust engines and be able to carry more fuel. This aircraft will have a gross weight of 632,500 lbs. ("Boeing plans", 1994, p. 21). The B-market 777 will be able to carry 305 to 328 passengers in a tri-class arrangement up to 7,600 nautical miles (Tortolano, 1991, pp. 122-134). Finally, Boei...