Aviation

Boeing confirms 797: A New Era for Mid-Size Aircraft

Boeing is rumored to be developing the Boeing 797, as speculated among employees and airlines. The company’s announcements suggest that the new aircraft will be constructed in Washington. It is widely anticipated that this aircraft will be named the Boeing 797.

The Boeing 797 is expected to replace the 757, which was in production until 2004. The 757 was a highly regarded aircraft, though it was smaller than the Boeing 737 Max.

The new 797 will fill the gap in the mid-size aircraft market, catering to segments with capacities of fewer than 250 passengers.

Mega Comparison of Boeing 777x vs A350-1000 Aircraft

Boeing 797: The Next Generation Aircraft Set to Replace the 757

The project was initiated by Boeing in 2015 after determining that the market was ripe for a new design. By 2017, several airlines had shown interest in a composite, seven-abreast twin-aisle aircraft with an elliptical cross-section.

The Boeing 797 is anticipated to come in two variants: a 225-seat version with a range of 5,000 nautical miles (9,300 km) and a 275-seat version with a range of 4,500 nautical miles (8,300 km).

Experience the Boeing 737 MAX Interior.

Market forecasts for this aircraft type range from 2,000 to 4,000 units, with Boeing anticipating demand at the higher end of this spectrum. The projected price is between $65 million and $75 million.

On the other hand, Airbus is capitalizing on the market gap in this segment with its extended-range version, the Airbus A321 XLR, which is scheduled for release by the end of the year.

Exploring the Boeing 797: A Replacement for the 757 with Advanced Features

The A321 XLR not only features advanced composite materials but also incorporates the latest technologies found in newer airliners. These innovations are expected to reduce operating costs and enhance efficiency for airline operators.

Meanwhile, Boeing is focusing on increasing orders for the Boeing 737 Max and Boeing 777X as it navigates current challenges. The company plans to advance the development of the new Boeing 797, with the project expected to be underway by 2030 and potentially costing around $25 billion.

Aviation

India Launches Its Medium-Lift Class Helicopter Program, chooses New Engine

India’s longstanding need for a Medium Helicopter may soon become a reality as the country has fully ramped up its engine development efforts. This new helicopter is set to replace the Russian-built models currently in service and will play a crucial role across various scenarios for the Indian Armed Forces.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt. Ltd. (SAFHAL) have launched a groundbreaking partnership to develop a state-of-the-art high-power engine named Aravalli.

This new engine will power the upcoming 13-ton Medium Lift Helicopter (IMRH) and the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH), both of which are being designed and developed by HAL.

Named after the majestic Aravalli mountain range in India, the Aravalli engine symbolizes the country’s drive for self-reliance, or Aatmanirbharta, in critical engine technologies. This cutting-edge engine will be instrumental for the IMRH, a versatile 13-ton multi-role helicopter designed to meet the needs of the Indian armed forces, and the DBMRH, a 12.5-ton naval variant tailored for the Indian Navy.

The IMRH is poised to become a cornerstone of the Indian armed forces over the next decade. With its first flight expected in 3 to 4 years, the IMRH is anticipated to begin induction by 2030, with plans to integrate between 300 to 400 units, and potentially more in the future.

The IMRH is envisioned as a highly versatile multi-role helicopter that will enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian military. The DBMRH, designed for naval operations, will also face the challenges of high-altitude environments in regions such as Ladakh, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh—areas of strategic importance due to their proximity to the China border.

In addition to its military applications, the Aravalli engine is projected to enter the civil market, serving roles in offshore operations, utility services, and VVIP transport. The long-term vision includes Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) activities to further extend the engine’s utility and support the aviation industry.

This collaboration between HAL and SAFHAL builds on their successful history of working together on the Shakti engine, which powers several HAL helicopters, including the Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv, the Light Combat Helicopter Prachand, and the Light Utility Helicopter. The proven success of this partnership lays a strong foundation for the development of the Aravalli engine, setting the stage for a new era in India’s helicopter capabilities.