Boeing, FedEx Express collaborate on ecoDemonstrator flight testing aboard 777 Freighter plane
SEATTLE. Starting in 2018, a new Boeing 777 Freighter aircraft made for FedEx Express will test emerging technologies, such as propulsion advancements and flight deck innovations. Boeing [NYSE:BA] and FedEx Express, a subsidiary of FedEx Corp. (NYSE:FDX), are working together to fly the next ecoDemonstrator to accelerate aerospace innovation.
The ecoDemonstrator program, now in its fifth iteration, serves as a series of flying testbeds designed to improve the environmental performance and safety of future airplanes.
The 2018 ecoDemonstrator will be a collaboration between Boeing and FedEx. Boeing will borrow a 777 Freighter, like the one in this artist's drawing, and test more than 30 technologies in a flight test program next spring. (Boeing illustration)
This round of ecoDemonstrator testing includes installing a compact thrust reverser developed by Boeing designed to save fuel, flight deck improvements that can improve efficient operations in and out of busy airports, and flying prototype airplane parts using cutting-edge manufacturing techniques that reduce material waste.
Read more of the latest flight test news.
"The ecoDemonstrator program is focused on harvesting exciting new technologies that will benefit our airline customers, the flying public, and the environment," says Mike Sinnett, vice president of Boeing Commercial Airplanes product development.
"FedEx is committed to developing and implementing innovative solutions that connect the world responsibly and resourcefully," adds David Cunningham, president and CEO, FedEx Express. "We're proud to work with Boeing and use our 777 Freighter to play a key role in bringing future benefits to the entire aviation industry."
Visit the Engineering Design, Development, and Test Tools Topic Center.
The collaboration on the newest ecoDemonstrator project is the latest in a 38-year relationship between Boeing and FedEx.
Search the Aerospace & Defense Buyer's Guide
The go-to resource for Intelligent Aerospace technology news & information:
Covering key topics
Across all market segments
Subscribe to the free Intelligent Inbox e-newsletter
Subscribe to receive all the latest aerospace technology news & information, delivered directly to your e-mail inbox twice a week (Tuesdays and Thursdays). Sign upfor your free subscription to the Intelligent Inbox e-newsletter at http://www.intelligent-aerospace.com/subscribe.html.
Connect on social media
Keep pace with aerospace innovation and opportunities via your favorite social media channels. Connect with Intelligent Aerospace on Twitter (@IntelligentAero), LinkedIn,Google+, and Instagram.
Intelligent Aerospace, the global aerospace technology network, reports on the latest tools, technologies, and trends of vital importance to aerospace professionals throughout the industry and around the globe, including engineers, engineering managers, and other key decision-makers involved in the research & development, design, test, manufacture, maintenance, upgrade and retrofit, management, and acquisition of electronics hardware and software components, tools, and systems for commercial and military fixed-wing, rotor-wing, and unmanned aircraft, air traffic control, airport operations, satellites, and space.
Courtney E. Howard | Chief Editor, Intelligent Aerospace
Courtney enjoys writing about all things high-tech in PennWell’s burgeoning Aerospace and Defense Group, which encompasses Intelligent Aerospace and Military & Aerospace Electronics. She’s also a self-proclaimed social-media maven, mil-aero nerd, and avid avionics and space geek. Connect with Courtney at [email protected], @coho on Twitter, on LinkedIn, and on Google+.