Boeing

Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced a new carbon brake option that will reduce airframe weight and lower operating costs for Next-Generation 737 operators around the world.

The no-charge option will save up to 700 pounds in airplane weight and increase the wear life up to twice the number of landings. The reduction in weight and increased durability will lower maintenance and operating costs overall.

"Carbon brakes offer the same stopping performance as steel brakes but with the added benefit of a significant weight savings, which ultimately increases fuel efficiency," said Mike Delaney, 737 chief project engineer. "Next-Generation 737s are already lighter than competing Airbus models. This structural efficiency is a fundamental reason why Next-Generation 737s fly farther, higher and with better fuel efficiency than the competition."

"This new feature demonstrates our continued commitment to offer technology that brings value to our customers and continues to make the 737 the most capable airplane in the world's single-aisle market," added Delaney.

The carbon brakes, which will be supplied by Goodrich and Messier-Bugatti, will be available for deliveries starting in early 2008, following a two-month flight test program. The option also will be available for retrofit on all Next-Generation 737s.

Known for their industry-leading reliability and low operating costs, the Next-Generation 737s are part of the best-selling 737 family. Overall, operators around the world have ordered more than 6,000 models. To date, 95 operators have placed orders for more than 2,960 Next-Generation 737s; the program has a backlog of 1,133 units with a value of about $69 billion at current list prices.

For more information about the 737, visit http://www.boeing.com/commercial/737family/media_kit/index.html.