Are you ready? The Boeing Company has stated that its engineers are going to begin the construction of the world’s largest twin-engine jetliner that will be termed as 777-9X, the very first of the 777x family. This news has been met with quite an excitement from travelers and aviation enthusiasts alike. The wings of the plane will be so large that they will have to be folded in order to park the plane at any airport.
The wingspan shall measure in at 235feet, 5 inches and shall sport hinges on the wing tips that will allow the wings to fold up when it will taxi at airports. Locking pins shall be used to prevent folding of wings during flight.
Boeing said, “The cabin interior of the 777X is inspired by the comforts and conveniences of the 787 Dreamliner and includes larger windows, a wider cabin, new lighting and enhanced architecture — all of which will be custom-tailored for a unique 777X experience.”
It will sport a passenger capacity of 400 passengers and shall have economy-class seating of width of up to 18 inches. Boeing further stated, “Building on the success of the 777 and 787 Dreamliner, the 777X will be the largest and most efficient twin-engine jet in the world, unmatched in every aspect of performance. That’s a better way to fly.”
With due respect to all the very best engineering design and practices that Boeing will put to use in building this aircraft, the single and simple question that comes to my mind is “Why do we need a folding wing design ?” with a locking pin arrangement to top it ? THAT is a constant source of worry and anxiety, one that an be avoided.
Think out of the box , to overcome the folding and locking pin wing….
And when you’re done, I’ll step in and set it right….. failsafe way !!!