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Boeing's new 767-400ER takes off on its first flight from Paine Field in Everet, WA.
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Signaling the beginning of a 6 1/2-month flight-test program, a 767-400ER took off from Paine Field in Everett, WA, for a 5-h flight in which Captains Buzz Nelson and John Cashman conducted a series of tests on the airplane's systems and structures. Onboard flight-test equipment recorded and transmitted data to flight-test engineers stationed in a control room at Boeing Field in Seattle.
Sized between the 767-300 and the 777-200, the 767-400ER features a lengthened fuselage, aerodynamic improvements including additional wingspan, increased takeoff weight capability, and an all-new main landing gear. The aircraft accommodates 245 passengers in a three-class configuration and 304 passengers in a two-class configuration compared to the 218 and 269, respectively, in the 767-300 version.
The 767-400ER's flight deck incorporates six flat-panel displays, with a layout similar to that used on the 777. These digital displays will be programmable (similar to the Next-Generation 737) to display information as it appears in the existing flight deck, allowing for the same pilot-type rating with the current 767 fleet.
This extended-range version also features new, highly back-swept (raked) wingtip extensions that increase the base aircraft's 156-ft wingspan to 170 ft, 4 in. The wing extensions provide more lift without engineers having to lengthen the basic wing. The lightweight extensions bolt into place, with no additional design changes needed to the tip or leading edges of the wing.
The 767-400ER's flight-test program will include two other aircraft in addition to the one used in the first test flight. These three aircraft will accumulate approximately 800 flight hours and 1100 ground-test hours. At the conclusion of flight testing, the aircraft will receive certification by the FAA and concurrence by the European Joint Aviation Authorities. At the time of press, orders for the aircraft totaled 54.
Frank Bokulich
