Boeing

The Boeing [NYSE: BA] Interiors Responsibility Center will oversee development of, and suppliers for, the 7E7 Dreamliner passenger airplane's all-new interior, the company said today.

Boeing and Teague, a Seattle-based design firm, are crafting the 7E7 interior's architecture. Along with helping translate concepts into specific designs and assemblies, the Interiors Responsibility Center will manage interior suppliers in cooperation with Boeing Commercial Airplanes' Supplier Management and Procurement organization.

"Traditionally we considered the Interiors Responsibility Center strictly as a parts supplier," said Boeing 7E7 Senior Vice President Mike Bair. "We're convinced it will add value by also helping develop and manage the supply chain."

Located in Everett, Wash., the Interiors Responsibility Center is part of Boeing Commercial Airplanes' Fabrication Division. It designs, manufactures, assembles and integrates many of the production, aftermarket, and spares interior systems for Boeing commercial jets.

For the 7E7, the Interiors Responsibility Center specifically will oversee development of, and suppliers for, the interior sidewalls, ceilings, stowage bins, crew rests and closets. The program separately will select providers of items including lavatories, galleys, passenger seats, water system and escape slides. Those suppliers are to be chosen by year's end.

"Our team's creativity, innovation and hard work allowed us to be selected as the 7E7 main cabin partner," said Elizabeth Lund, the Interiors Responsibility Center's director. "This is a milestone on our journey to becoming the world's premier choice for aircraft interiors."

The 7E7 is an all-new family of mid-sized airplanes that will provide exceptional fuel efficiencies for airlines and superior comfort for passengers. It is to enter service in 2008.