Boeing optimistic about 7E7’s future

LONDON — The head of Boeing Co.’s 7E7 program said Wednesday the airplane manufacturer is in detailed talks to sell its new fuel-efficient passenger jet to more than 30 airlines.

Mike Bair, senior vice president of the 7E7 program for Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said the talks could amount to more than 600 orders.

He said he’s optimistic that around 500 orders could be received by the time of the 7E7’s first scheduled flight in the late summer of 2007.

The mid-sized 7E7 “Dreamliner” is due to go into service with airlines from 2008.

Boeing says the plane will use 20 percent less fuel than existing, similar-sized aircraft through more efficient engines and the increased use of lighter composite materials.

The 7E7 has a list price of about $120 million but airlines regularly negotiate discounts.

All Nippon Airways Co. Ltd. and Air New Zealand Ltd. have already signed agreements to buy 7E7s. Bair said U.S. airlines — many of which are struggling financially — aren’t actively considering buying 7E7s.

So far no European carriers have indicated they will be ordering the planes, but Boeing executive Marlin Dailey, said he was confident British carriers will buy the jet.