Boeing

The Boeing Company is highlighting its newest twinjet, the 717-200, during Airshow China '98. Promotion of the airplane is part of a show exhibit featuring the Commercial Airplanes product line.

"The 717-200 is ideally suited for China's growing regional market" said Ray Bracy, president - Boeing China. "It will add diversity to a fleet mix and provide operators the flexibility they need when adapting to changing market conditions."

Launched in October 1995 as the MD-95, the airplane was designated the Boeing 717-200 shortly after the merger of McDonnell Douglas Corp. and The Boeing Company. AirTran Airlines is the 717-200 launch customer and will take delivery of the first 717-200s in the summer of 1999.

With a standard arrangement of 106 seats, the 717-200 fits a growing worldwide airplane market that demands full-size jetliner comfort, low operating costs and high reliability. It meets the airlines' needs for a 100-passenger transport to serve high-frequency or low-traffic, short-to-medium-range routes.

"Airlines will recognize the value of the 717-200 and the high returns it will generate for them," said Bracy. "The flying public will appreciate the convenience and comfort of jet travel on routes that were previously serviced by propeller transports."

The 717-200's spacious, all-new passenger cabin features five-across economy-class seating, illuminated overhead handrails and large stowage bins.

Flight deck features in the 717-200 include an electronic instrument system, a dual Flight Management System and Global Positioning System. It is configured around six liquid crystal display units and advanced Honeywell VIA 2000 computer systems, similar to those in other new Boeing jetliners.

Two advanced BMW/Rolls-Royce BR715 high-bypass ratio engines power the 717-200. The engine is rated at 18,500 to 21,000 pounds of takeoff thrust, with lower fuel consumption and significantly lower noise and emission levels than the power plants on comparable airplanes.

The 717-200 flew Sept. 2 for the first time. The second 717-200 entered the flight test and certification program October 26. To date, the first plane has made more than 60 flights and the second has recorded over 20 flights. A third plane is due to join the test program in December. There are currently five customer-production planes in final assembly.