Air New Zealand launched the 777-200ER aircraft from New Zealand at 7:20PM yesterday, that arrived at Buenos Aires, Argentina after 12 long hours. In order to make this trip possible, Boeing equipped its 777-200 aircraft with Rolls-Royce Trent 800 engines, allowing the aircraft to fly for 330-minute extended hours.
The approval was a milestone for the company, as this flight was the longest ever to be operated industry-wide.
Captain David Morgan, chief flight operations and safety officer, Air New Zealand commented: “We’re delighted to be the first airline globally to offer the longer ETOPS on our 777-200 aircraft for our Auckland – Buenos route. It allows us to offer a new and exciting destination for our customers.”
Air New Zealand was already operating 240-minutes extended flights since 2014; on receiving grant from New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority, the airline can now operate the aircraft for 90 more minutes.
It was also a milestone for Boeing, as its 777-200ER would be the first aircraft to be operated over these long routes. Elizabeth Lund, vice president and general manager, 777-program commented:
“We are pleased to mark this milestone with Air New Zealand, a valued Boeing customer, who has led the industry on ETOPS approvals for decades.”
The news also gives hope to Boeing’s wide-body 777 series jets, which is receiving reduced demand in the market. For the same reason, the company introduced Rolls-Royce Trent 800 engine in the extended version, which offers reduced carbon emission with reduced fuel consumption.
It is expected that the company might receive new orders for its 777 series, based on the current achievement.
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