Boeing [NYSE: BA] is adding Messier-Bugatti of the Snecma Group and Goodrich's Aircraft Wheels and Brakes group to its 7E7 Dreamliner global supplier team as providers of electric brakes. The awards mark the fourth 7E7 work package for North Carolina-based Goodrich Corp. and the third for France 's Snecma Group.

The 7E7 is the first large commercial airplane with electrically actuated brakes.

"Our partners answered our call for innovative systems that deliver real value -- in terms of efficiency, reliability and reduced costs -- to our customers," said Mike Bair, vice president and general manager of the 7E7 program. "Messier-Bugatti and Goodrich are welcome members of our strong international team."

Airlines can choose either the Messier-Bugatti or Goodrich electric brake systems for their 7E7s. On the 7E7, braking forces are generated with electro-mechanical actuators as opposed to traditional hydraulic pistons. That approach provides a high rate of reliability and lower weight compared to the traditional systems. The electric brakes also offer self monitoring through the 7E7's computers, which is a maintenance advantage for airlines.

"Our digital electric braking system is the result of technology developed and validated during the last decade. We have achieved excellent results with this technology," said John Grisik, segment president of Airframe Systems for Goodrich,

Yves Leclère, chairman and chief executive officer of Messier-Bugatti said, "We are very proud of Boeing's fourth back-to-back selection of Messier-Bugatti carbon brakes. With our product on the 767, C-17 Globemaster, 777-200LR/-300ER and now the 7E7, there is a clear recognition of our advance in electrical brakes technology".

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7E7 Dreamliner

Launched in April 2004, the fuel-efficient 7E7 is a family of three airplanes designed to serve routes between 3,500 and 8,500 nautical miles (6,500 and 15,700 kilometers). The Dreamliner will provide passengers with a better flying experience, including an improved cabin environment with more room and more conveniences.

Goodrich Corporation

Boeing first chose Goodrich wheels and brakes in the early 1960s for its 727. Today, Goodrich has over 24,000 brakes in service on the 727, 737CL, 737NG, 747-400/ER, 757-200/300, 767-400, 777, 777LR, T-45, and CH-47 helicopter. The company will also provide nacelles and thrust reversers, the proximity sensing system, fuel quantity indicating system and fuel management software. Goodrich Corporation is a leading global supplier of systems and services to the aerospace and defense industry.

Messier-Bugatti

Boeing first chose Messier-Bugatti wheels and brakes in 1997 for its 767-200/-300. Its wheels and brakes have also been chosen for the 777LR and the C-17. Messier-Bugatti is part of Snecma, which has operations in 22 countries on five continents, and is present in all major segments of the aerospace market.