TEMPTED by projections that the number of air passengers will double in the next 10 years, but daunted by the US $10 billion price tag of a super jumbo jet with a carrying capacity of 800 passengers, Boeing of USA is negotiating collaboration with Europe's Airbus Industrie consortium. Boeing's latest jumbo, the 747-400, can carry only 450 passengers.
Because a super jumbo would have to use existing airports, the major design problem is how to seat an extra 350 passengers in an aircraft that only nominally exceeds the dimensions of a 747-400. And, how will present airport terminals and ancillary facilities cope with the bigger aircraft and the vast crowds they would disgorge?
Boeing's engineers, however, are confident these problems can be solved.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.