MBN: The Monte Bubbles Network: Boeing News

July 10

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today announced that it has received an $18 million U.S. Navy contract to design, develop and produce the Undergraduate Military Flight Officer (UMFO) ground-based training system for Training Wing 6 at Naval Air Station Pensacola, Fla.

"Future readiness begins with training, and the U.S. Navy's UMFO program is the foundation for the naval flight officers of tomorrow," said Tony Jones, vice president, Boeing Training Systems and Services. "We recognize the importance of providing a state-of-the-art training capability for new weapon systems and look forward to the opportunity to provide that capability to the U.S. Navy."

The new system will provide introductory training for naval flight officers, weapon system officers and international military flight officers destined for highly sophisticated weapon systems such as the F/A-18F Super Hornet, the EA-6B Prowler, the EA-18G Growler, the E-2C Hawkeye and the F-15E Strike Eagle.

As the prime contractor and lead systems integrator, Boeing will lead the instructional system development and deliver the courseware, electronic classrooms and T-45 aircrew training devices.

In conjunction with existing T-6 aircraft and its aircrew training devices, and the T-45C aircraft currently being augmented by Boeing with a virtual radar capability, the new system will replace aging T-2 and T-39 aircraft, courseware and training devices.

Fourteen airlines signed to use Boeing's [NYSE: BA] Maintenance Performance Toolbox in the first half of this year. Toolbox, which is rapidly becoming a must-have software package for efficiency-conscious carriers, represents the industry's first set of productivity tools designed to unify an airline's maintenance and engineering operations from start to finish.

Since Japan Airlines became the launch customer for Toolbox in October 2005, a total of 38 carriers have signed to use the tool. Boeing was awarded a special "Breakthrough Technology Award" by Aviation Week magazine when Toolbox was introduced.

Through the first six months of 2007, these airlines have selected Toolbox: Aeroflot, Air China Southwest Branch, Air India, Air India Express, Emirates, Hainan Airlines, Royal Air Maroc, S7 Airlines (formerly Siberia Airlines), Southwest Airlines, transavia.com and Turkish Airlines. Three airlines are not identified.

"This positive reaction to the introduction of Maintenance Performance Toolbox is a sign that the airline industry will enthusiastically embrace a comprehensive software tool that's going to help improve efficiency and productivity, increasing value to passengers," said Dan da Silva, vice president of Sales and Marketing for Boeing Commercial Aviation Services. "Toolbox brings Boeing into a partnership with its customers that helps improve operations and, ultimately, profitability."

In all, Toolbox today comprises five different tools in one easy-to-use suite that can help airlines streamline a wide range of maintenance and repair activities from managing technical publications to troubleshooting problems to performing core maintenance and engineering tasks. Airlines are free to pick and choose from among the capabilities to supplement their operations as needed.

A new module, Training, will be introduced later this year. This form of just-in-time Training will help airline mechanics and technicians train for specific tasks when and if necessary.

Toolbox is a key element in Boeing's efforts to help airlines gather and use precise, practical and timely information through the application of multiple digital solutions. The products, which include Airplane Health Management and the Class 3 Electronic Flight Bag, are designed to integrate seamlessly to offer an effective response to airlines' maintenance needs.

Available via an Internet browser as a secured, hosted service, Toolbox provides reliable access to all of its tools through MyBoeingFleet.com, Boeing's Internet

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today announced that Spirit AeroSystems has joined its P-8A Poseidon industry team, which is developing the U.S. Navy's next-generation, long-range anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft.

Spirit will build the 737 aircraft's fuselage and airframe tail sections and struts in Wichita, Kan. After completion, Spirit will ship the components to Boeing facilities in Renton, Wash., for final assembly and introduction of mission-specific systems.

"We are pleased to welcome Spirit to the P-8A industry team," said Bob Feldmann, Boeing vice president and P-8A program manager. "Spirit does great work on our company's commercial aircraft, and they will be a key contributor as we build and deliver this transformational aircraft to the warfighter."

"Spirit is proud to be part of the P-8A team and is committed to the program's success," said Buck Buchanan, Spirit AeroSystems vice president/general manager, Fuselage Structures and Systems. "The structures we will deliver all have customer-unique features installed in the standard commercial line. This allows the lowest possible cost and shortest flow to the customer since our standard processes are used rather than relying on traditional techniques of modifying military planes after delivery."

The U.S. Navy plans to purchase 108 P-8As to replace its fleet of P-3C aircraft. Boeing will deliver the first aircraft for flight test in 2009, with initial operational capability slated for 2013.

The P-8A is capable of broad-area, maritime and littoral operations. A derivative of the Next-Generation 737-800, the P-8A combines superior performance and reliability with an advanced mission system that ensures maximum interoperability in the future battlespace.

The Boeing-led P-8A team also includes CFM International, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon and Smiths Aerospace.

Based in Wichita, Kan., Spirit AeroSystems is the world's largest independent supplier of large component parts and assemblies for commercial aircraft. Spirit designs and builds the all-composite forward fuselage for the Boeing 787 in addition to pylon and wing structures for the new airplane. Spirit produces the fuselage, engine pylons and nacelles, vertical fin and horizontal stabilizer, inboard and outboard flaps for Boeing's Next-Generation 737 family of airplanes. It also builds nose sections, nacelles and pylons for the 747, 767 and 777 aircraft, as well as slats and floor beams for the 777 and wing and fuselage components for the 747.

TEAM TSAT, led by The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA], has demonstrated that its Transformational Satellite Communications System Space Segment (TSAT) hardware and software can function in simulated operational environments, achieving Technology Readiness Level-6 (TRL-6) for payload, antenna, information assurance and gateway technologies.

"Reaching TRL-6 is the culmination of TEAM TSAT's three-year effort and validates Boeing's extensive risk reduction efforts," said Howard Chambers, vice president and general manager of Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems. "This broad technology maturity, combined with our customer's block development approach, means TSAT is optimally positioned to move into production."

Working with the U.S. Air Force and independent agencies, including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Lincoln Laboratory, TEAM TSAT reached another key milestone on the path to flight with the successful demonstrations necessary for TRL-6.

Critical components reaching the TRL-6 level or greater include the TSAT laser communications system's telescope, optical bench and communications electronics; the Next-Generation Processor Router technologies for packet processing, based on Boeing-built systems already on-orbit; the antenna hardware, which includes the critical Communications-on-the-Move antenna that enables warfighter mobility; and the bandwidth allocation and protected waveform technologies. TEAM TSAT also reduced information assurance risks for Internet protocol and transmission security, achieving the TRL-6+ level. Key enabling technologies found in the ground gateway and Data Processing Center, developed on internal research and development investments by Boeing, Harris and SAIC, also have attained TRL-6.

Boeing's TEAM TSAT consists of Cisco Systems, Hughes, IBM, Harris Corp., Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp., LGS Innovations, Raytheon, General Dynamics C4S, L-3 Communications, BBN Technologies, EMS Technologies and SAIC. Under Boeing's leadership, the team submitted its proposal July 30, and the contract award is anticipated by the end of 2007.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and Cathay Pacific Airways today announced that the Hong Kong-based carrier has ordered five additional Boeing 777-300ER (Extended Range) jetliners, increasing the airline's commitment to a total of 23 of the advanced twin-engine, twin-aisle airplanes.

Cathay Pacific announced in 2005 that the airline was purchasing 12 777-300ERs from Boeing, with four additional operating leases through International Lease Finance Corp. The first of those airplanes will be delivered in September. Last year the airline exercised additional rights to order two more 777-300ERs.

The five new airplanes have an estimated value of $1.4 billion at Boeing list prices. All of Cathay Pacific's 777-300ERs will be powered by General Electric GE90-115BL engines.

Cathay Pacific's 777-300ER fleet will significantly increase the airline's capacity and will be used primarily on long-haul and ultra-long-haul routes to Europe and North America. The airplanes will enable full payload, nonstop service connecting Hong Kong and New York.

"This fleet expansion is in line with our plan to expand our network and connectivity, in the process further strengthening Cathay Pacific's position as Hong Kong's home carrier and cementing the city's status as a leading international aviation hub," said Cathay Pacific Chief Executive Tony Tyler. "These aircraft represent a very substantial investment and underline our long-term commitment to continued profitable growth of the airline and to providing the best travel experience for our passengers."

With its twin-engine efficiency, the 777-300ER reduces fuel consumption by more than 20 percent per seat compared to its closest competitor, therefore reducing CO2 emissions by more than 20 percent.

"This additional commitment from a world-class operator is a testament to the benefits the 777-300ER brings to the airline and its passengers," said Rob Laird, vice president, Sales - Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Cathay Pacific is a long-time Boeing customer and we are proud that the 777 family plays such an important role in their fleet."

The airline currently operates 777-200s and -300s for regional operations and the airline has selected the 777 family as the standard of its ultra-long-haul luxury service for the future.

Cathay Pacific currently operates 24 Boeing 747-400s and 17 Boeing 777-200/300s in passenger service, as well as six 747-400 Freighters, seven 747-200 Freighters and six 747-400BCFs (Boeing Converted Freighters), with two more 747-400BCFs and six 747-400ER Freighters on order.

Additionally, Dragonair, a Cathay Pacific subsidiary, operates another six 747 Freighters - a 747-200F, three 747-300SFs and two 747-400BCFs, with three 747-400BCFs on order.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] today confirmed that Canadian low-fare carrier WestJet ordered 20 Next-Generation 737s to add to the airline's all-737 fleet. The order is for 737-700s with conversion rights to 737-800s if desired.

WestJet, based in Calgary, Alberta, was one of the most profitable airlines in North America in 2006. It has consistently recorded over 15 percent annual growth as it expanded its routes across North America and the Caribbean. Founded in 1996, the airline currently operates 67 Next-Generation 737s. With today's order, WestJet's fleet will grow to 108 leased or purchased Next-Generation 737s. Forty-one remain to be delivered.

AeroSvit-Ukrainian Airlines is ordering up to 14 Boeing [NYSE: BA] 737-800 airplanes. The Kiev-based carrier signed an order for seven 737s valued at $523 million at list prices, and secured purchase rights for another seven. The order was recently included on the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Orders and Deliveries Web site, attributed to an unidentified customer.

AeroSvit will equip the airplanes with fuel-saving Blended Winglets. This order marks AeroSvit's first direct purchase from Boeing since the carrier was founded in 1994. All-Boeing operator AeroSvit will gradually replace its fleet of 13 737 Classic airplanes with the Next-Generation 737s, today's most technologically advanced single-aisle commercial jetliner.

"This order is significant for Ukrainian aviation. It demonstrates dedicated execution of our replacement strategy and is an indicator of Ukraine's current economic development and progress as an important player in international business and tourism," said Aron Mayberg, director general of AeroSvit. "Boeing demonstrated in-depth knowledge of our business and, with the Next-Generation 737, presented a compelling solution to our future needs. We look forward to continuing our excellent cooperation."

AeroSvit operates three Boeing 767s on its long-haul services to destinations including Delhi, Bangkok, Shanghai, Beijing, Toronto and New York.

"Travel to and from Ukraine is prospering, along with the rest of Eastern Europe. AeroSvit is showing a keen sense of business by preparing now for future growth," said Craig Jones, vice president of Sales, Russia/CIS, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. " The Next-Generation 737's improved capabilities and economics will allow AeroSvit to offer passengers greater comfort and affordability and more reliable on-time service."

The 737 is the most successful commercial airplane family in history, with more than 7,000 orders. Boeing has more than 1,500 unfilled orders for the Next Generation 737 worth over $100 billion.

Two advanced Boeing [NYSE: BA] technologies will combine to help Emirates drive efficiency and maintain performance in its rapidly growing fleet of Boeing 777s and new 747-8s. By the end of this year, the Dubai-based airline will be operating 51 777s. In 2005, the airline ordered 42 777s, and when all of those are in service, the airline is expected to have a fleet of 93 777s.

Emirates will use an in-flight decision-support system, Airplane Health Management (AHM), as well as a software maintenance-support system, Maintenance Performance Toolbox, to help operate and maintain the airplanes during this period of rapid expansion.

"Emirates is dedicated to providing its passengers a superior flying experience, and the combination of these two Boeing products helps maximize that effort," said Iain Lachlan, Emirates' divisional senior vice president - Aircraft Maintenance. "These cutting-edge tools indicate clearly that we are committed to reviewing the latest technologies, and investing and adopting the best, most up-to-date technology to help ensure a safe, reliable and comfortable flight."

Toolbox and AHM are core elements of Boeing's strategy to provide an integrated suite of products to e-Enable the air transport system. Central to the effort is the idea that data, information and knowledge are collected and shared across an entire enterprise and its supply chain, so that airlines operate at the highest levels of operational and environmental efficiency. Emirates is the latest airline to adopt multiple e-Enabled products, which interact seamlessly and enhance the value that each would provide an airline individually.

"With this decision, Emirates is sending an industrywide message about how to drive efficiency and performance," said Dan da Silva, vice president of Sales and Marketing for Boeing Commercial Aviation Services. "We couldn't ask for a better validation of our products than an endorsement like this from one of the world's premier airlines." Airplane Health Management supports long-term fleet-reliability programs by helping airlines identify and respond to faults proactively. The goal is to help airlines operate at the highest levels of reliability and efficiency.

In addition to monitoring Emirates' expanding 777 fleet, AHM will also monitor the airline's fleet of 747s. Emirates ordered 10 747-8 Freighters last year and is AHM's launch customer for the 747-8. Airplane Health Management now provides real-time monitoring and decision support for 42 percent of the world's 777s and 31 percent of its 747-400s.

Toolbox, which is rapidly becoming a must-have software package for efficiency-conscious carriers, represents the industry's first set of productivity tools designed to unify an airline's maintenance and engineering operations from start to finish. In all, 39 air carriers have signed up for Toolbox since it was introduced 20 months ago. Toolbox today comprises six different tools that can help airlines streamline a wide range of maintenance and repair activities. Airlines can pick only the tools that they want to meet their specific needs.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has been awarded a three and one half-year, $18 million U.S. Marine Corps contract to provide additional ScanEagle® intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance support services to the Marine Expeditionary Forces (MEF). Boeing, in partnership with Insitu, Inc., developers of ScanEagle, make up Team ScanEagle.

ScanEagle, a long-endurance, fully autonomous unmanned aircraft, has been used by the Marines since July 2004, the U.S. Navy since September 2005 and the Australian Defense Forces since November 2006. During that time, ScanEagles have flown more than 4,600 sorties and 50,000 flight hours, including 34,000 hours with the MEF.

The contract, awarded by the Marine Corps Systems Command in Quantico, Va., includes options for additional support that could increase the contract value to $381.5 million.

The initial agreement calls for several system upgrades, including the new ScanEagle Block D air vehicle, Rover III forward display system compatibility, an enhanced infrared payload and a mode C transponder.

"These enhancements to the ScanEagle system will broaden its base of operations and allow it to run 24 hours a day, seven days a week," said Jim Havard, Boeing MEF program manager.

"We are pleased to have the opportunity to further serve the Marine Corps in force protection and associated missions, and with this long-term commitment, we can continue to enhance capability while expanding our Marine Corps operations in Operation Iraqi Freedom and the global war on terror," said Don Haas, Insitu director of Operations Support.

A ScanEagle air vehicle carries inertially stabilized electro-optical and infrared cameras. The gimbaled cameras allow the operator to easily track both stationary and moving targets. Capable of flying above 16,000 feet, the platform provides persistent low-altitude reconnaissance.

ScanEagle is launched autonomously via a pneumatic SuperWedge™ catapult launcher and flies pre-programmed or operator-initiated missions. An Insitu-patented SkyHook™ system is used for retrieval, with the aircraft catching a rope suspended from a 50-foot-high tower. The patented system makes the ScanEagle system runway-independent with a small footprint similar to that needed for vertical takeoff and landing vehicles.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and its TEAM TSAT industry partners today submitted a proposal to the U.S. Air Force for the Development and Production phase of the Transformational Satellite Communications System Space Segment (TSAT) program.

"TEAM TSAT offers unique capability and experience to the U.S. Air Force," said Howard Chambers, vice president and general manager of Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems. "That value is based on our 25-year heritage providing military satellite communications and our best-of-industry team, which has successfully delivered the most capable terrestrial and satellite communications network systems in service today."

Delivery of the proposal caps more than three years of work on the TSAT Space Segment Risk Reduction System Definition contract. During that time, Boeing has demonstrated TSAT's advanced capabilities and technology maturity through successful laser communications and Next Generation Processor Router demonstrations. Additional demonstrations across all key elements of the TSAT network culminated with the comprehensive, integrated, end-to-end demo at the Space Segment Design Review in April. These risk reduction efforts have confirmed compliance with standards, interoperability and mission-level performance.

"Our partners and suppliers make our proposal stand out," said Chambers. "This is a case where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Our team has the people, processes, tools and capabilities that precisely match the Air Force's needs."

Boeing and its partners look forward to continued collaboration with the Air Force and stand ready to begin work immediately upon contract award, which is anticipated in November. Boeing will build TSAT at its satellite factory in El Segundo, Calif.

July 27

The innovative Boeing [NYSE: BA] Blended Wing Body (BWB) research aircraft -- designated the X-48B -- flew for the first time last week at NASA's Dryden Flight Research Center at Edwards Air Force Base in California.

The 21-foot wingspan, 500-pound unmanned test vehicle took off for the first time at 8:42 a.m. Pacific Daylight Time on July 20 and climbed to an altitude of 7,500 feet before landing 31 minutes later.

"We've successfully passed another milestone in our work to explore and validate the structural, aerodynamic and operational efficiencies of the BWB concept," said Bob Liebeck, BWB program manager for Boeing Phantom Works, the company's advanced R&D unit. "We already have begun to compare actual flight-test data with the data generated earlier by our computer models and in the wind tunnel."

The X-48B flight test vehicle was developed by Boeing Phantom Works in cooperation with NASA and the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory to gather detailed information about the stability and flight-control characteristics of the BWB design, especially during takeoffs and landings. Up to 25 flights are planned to gather data in these low-speed flight regimes. Following completion of low-speed flight testing, the X-48B likely will be used to test the BWB's low-noise characteristics, as well as BWB handling characteristics at transonic speeds.

Two X-48B research vehicles have been built. The vehicle that flew on July 20 is Ship 2, which also was used for ground and taxi testing. Ship 1, a duplicate of Ship 2, completed extensive wind tunnel testing in 2006 at the Old Dominion University NASA Langley Full-Scale Tunnel in Virginia. Ship 1 will be available for use as a backup during the flight test program.

Three turbojet engines enable the composite-skinned research vehicle to fly up to 10,000 feet and 120 knots in its low-speed configuration. Modifications would need to be made to the vehicle to enable it to fly at higher speeds. The unmanned aircraft is remotely piloted from a ground control station in which the pilot uses conventional aircraft controls and instrumentation while looking at a monitor fed by a forward-looking camera on the aircraft.

The Boeing BWB design resembles a flying wing, but differs in that the wing blends smoothly into a wide, flat, tailless fuselage. This fuselage blending helps to get additional lift with less drag compared to a circular fuselage. This translates to reduced fuel use at cruise conditions. And because the engines mount high on the back of the aircraft, there is less noise inside and on the ground when it is in flight.

"While Boeing constantly explores and applies innovative technologies to enhance its current and next-generation products, the X-48B is a good example of how Boeing also looks much farther into the future at revolutionary concepts that promise even greater breakthroughs in flight," said Bob Krieger, Boeing chief technology officer and president of Phantom Works.

While a commercial passenger application for the BWB concept is not in Boeing's current 20-year market outlook, the Advanced Systems organization of Boeing Integrated Defense Systems' (IDS) is closely monitoring the research based on the BWB's potential as a flexible, long-range, high-capacity military aircraft.

"The BWB concept holds tremendous promise for the future of military aviation as a multi-purpose military platform in 15 to 20 years," said Darryl Davis, Boeing IDS Advanced Systems vice president and general manager of Advanced Precision Engagement and Mobility Systems. "Its unique design attributes will result in less fuel burn and a greatly reduced noise footprint, which are important capabilities to offer our Air Force and mobility customers."

NASA's participation in the project is focused on fundamental, edge-of-the-envelope flight dynamics and structural concepts of the BWB. Along with hosting the X-48B flight test and research activities, NASA Dryden provided engineering and technical support -- expertise garnered from years of operating cutting-edge unmanned air vehicles.

The two X-48B research vehicles were built by Cranfield Aerospace Ltd., in the United Kingdom, in accordance with Boeing requirements.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has developed and delivered 23 Apache Longbow Crew Trainers -- deployable, full-mission, high-fidelity flight simulators -- to the U.S. Army and Dutch Air Force and is under contract for an additional five trainers for both U.S. and international customers.

Apache Longbow Crew Trainers are successfully deployed throughout the U.S. and in four foreign countries, including Iraq. In 2007, the availability rate consistently remained greater than 95 percent, ensuring readiness levels for individuals, crews and maintenance test pilots.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and Mumbai, India-based Air India today celebrated the delivery of the airline's first 777-200LR (Longer Range) Worldliner airplane. This is the first 777 from Air India's order of 68 Boeing jetliners. The airline will receive an additional three 777-200LR Worldliner and three 777-300ER (Extended Range) airplanes this year.

Air India's order for 68 Boeing jetliners, placed in December 2005, was the largest commercial airplane order in India's civil aviation history in terms of price. The order consisted of 23 777s, including eight 777-200LR Worldliners and 15 777-300ERs, and 27 787-8 Dreamliners. Additionally, Air India Express, a wholly owned subsidiary of Air India, ordered 18 Next-Generation 737-800s.

Air India will use the 777-200LR to become the first India-based operator to offer direct, nonstop flights between the United States and India. It begins service to New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport from Mumbai, India, on Aug. 1.

"Air India is connecting India to the world and is doing so in a manner that combines real economic advantages for the airline and a positive experience for our passengers," said V. Thulasidas, chairman and managing director of Air India. "Boeing's 777-200LR is the most technologically advanced passenger aircraft in its class and will enable Air India to fly passengers around the world with direct, nonstop routes."

The 777 family of airplanes is popular with passengers and airlines because of its fuel-efficient twin-engine design, high reliability, low operating costs and comfortable and spacious interior. It is the market leader in the 300- to 400-seat segment, capturing more than 65 percent of that market.

"The 777 delivers proven economic leadership and a very high level of passenger comfort," said Dinesh Keskar, Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president, Sales. "Air India and Boeing embarked on a strategic fleet renewal and expansion plan in 2005. Today, we are seeing the results of that vision, plan and partnership coming together."

Air India's 777-200LR will have a three-class configuration, including eight first-class cabins, 35 executive class and 195 economy seats. All executive class seats will turn into flat beds and economy seats will be larger, at 18.5 inches in width. Passengers also will have access to an in-flight entertainment system provided by Thales on video screens that measure 23 inches in first class, 15.4 inches in executive class and 10.6 inches in economy. Additionally, the airplane will be able to carry up to 15 tons of cargo.

With the 787 Dreamliner and 777, Boeing offers a complete family of airplanes to cover the 200- to 400-seat market segment. With complementary range, speed, efficiency and operational commonality, yet differing seating and cargo capacities, airlines can use both models in their fleets to tailor capacity to meet seasonal demand.

Air India, India's national flag carrier, operates approximately 170 flights a week, carrying more than 5 million passengers a year to 59 cities worldwide from various points in India. Its subsidiary, Air India Express, operates 116 services a week to 10 destinations in the Gulf and South East Asia.

Air India, which is celebrating its 75th year of operation this year, operates 24 weekly flights to the U.S., including a daily service to New York via London and a daily service to Newark, N.J., via Paris.

The two X-48B research vehicles were built by Cranfield Aerospace Ltd., in the United Kingdom, in accordance with Boeing requirements.

The first of four Boeing [NYSE: BA] C-17 Globemaster IIIs for the Canadian Defense Forces took flight for the first time Monday, a major milestone leading to the aircraft's delivery on Aug. 8. With a takeoff weight of 460,000 pounds, (208,650 kg), the advanced airlifter lifted off from Long Beach, Calif., at 3:36 p.m. Pacific time, and flew for three hours and 45 minutes.

Led by Boeing production pilot Joel Brown, the seven-person crew put the C-17 through a series of functional checks, flying west over the Pacific Ocean, before returning to the facility where Boeing assembles and tests C-17s prior to delivery.

"For a first flight, we thought it performed exceptionally well," said Brown. "But our expectations are always high that the C-17 will perform well."

"We're looking forward to providing this world-class capability to our new customer, on time and on budget," said Dave Bowman, vice president and C-17 program manager. "The C-17 program continues to deliver on its commitment to execute flawlessly and deliver C-17s on time with the quality and reliability that has made the C-17 the best airlifter the world has ever seen."

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has been awarded a U.S. Army contract valued at approximately $7 million to begin developing the initial phase for a truck-mounted laser weapon system that destroys rockets, artillery shells and mortar rounds.

Under the High Energy Laser Technology Demonstrator (HEL TD) Phase I contract, awarded Friday, Boeing will develop and complete a preliminary design of a rugged beam control system (BCS) on a Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck.

The contract contains options that, if exercised, will call for Boeing to build and test a significant component of the HEL TD system, comprised of the BCS integrated on a vehicle platform, and refine requirements for the entire HEL TD system. The options would increase the total program contract cost to approximately $50 million.

The objective of the HEL TD program is to demonstrate that a mobile, solid-state laser weapon system can effectively counter rocket, artillery and mortar projectiles. The program will support the transition to a full-fledged Army acquisition program.

"We consider this program an important win for Boeing because it supports a cornerstone of the Army's high-energy laser program," said Pat Shanahan, vice president and general manager of Boeing Missile Defense Systems. "We believe this is the next step for developing a weapon system that can change the face of the battlefield."

Boeing leads the way in developing high-energy laser systems for a variety of warfighter applications. These systems include the Airborne Laser, the Advanced Tactical Laser and the Tactical Relay Mirror System.

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a $32.4 billion business with 72,000 employees worldwide.

July 19

Boeing Australia Limited today was certified by the Commonwealth as an Authorised Maintenance Organisation (AMO) for the Royal Australian Army fleet of Bell 206B-1 Kiowa and S-70-A Black Hawk training helicopters.

The certification includes on- and off-aircraft deeper maintenance and provides Boeing Australia Limited with the full maintenance authority required to complete its maintenance and modification contracts.

Lt. Col. Robert Crowe, Army Aviation Systems Program Office chief engineer, presented the AMO documentation today on behalf of the Commonwealth to Tony Trew, vice president and general manager of Boeing Australia Limited's Aerospace Support division, in a ceremony at the Army Aviation Training Centre in Oakey.

"AMO certification carries a high degree of credibility within the Australian Defence Industry," said Trew. "It is a demonstration of the high level of confidence that the Australian Defence Force Director General of Technical Airworthiness has in the team here at Oakey."

"Boeing Australia Limited's operation at Oakey has developed significantly in recent months, and I believe this performance further solidifies our position as one of the leading aerospace support facilities in the region and confirms the company's significant rotary wing capabilities," he continued.

The AMO certification is in support of the Commonwealth of Australia's Army Aviation Training and Training Support (AATTS) contract. The AATTS contract consolidates a number of current contracts that support the Army Aviation Training Centre at Oakey air base, Queensland. Boeing Australia Limited is responsible for providing flight and maintenance helicopter training for Army pilots and ground technical staff. This training will use existing aircraft training systems, including the Bell 206B-1 Kiowa and S-70-A Black Hawk helicopters.

Boeing Australia Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary that reports to Boeing Support Systems, is a high-technology aerospace company specialising in installation and support of systems for defence and commercial customers. It is one of the leading aerospace companies in Australia, employing 2,400 people across 14 sites.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and partner Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC), Lead Systems Integrator for the U.S. Army's Future Combat Systems (FCS) program, today announced that the Army has authorized planning for FCS low-rate initial production, including long-lead items for the first FCS capability Spin Out and Manned Ground Vehicle (MGV) early production units. The latter is focused on the Non-Line-of-Sight Cannon (NLOS-C) initial production platform, which will be fielded in 2010 according to a Congressional mandate.

"The Army's notification to proceed with early production planning for Spin Outs and Manned Ground Vehicles is evidence that FCS technologies are maturing according to plan and represents a crucial step toward meeting program production objectives," said Dennis Muilenburg, vice president-general manager, Boeing Combat Systems, and FCS program manager. "It underscores the significant accomplishments of the entire FCS One Team which continues to perform and is well-positioned to deliver these early life-saving capabilities to our soldiers as quickly as possible."

Three FCS Spin Outs to the current force will be initiated in two-year increments starting in 2008 when the FCS team delivers the first infusion of capability to the Army Evaluation Task Force (AETF) in Fort Bliss, Texas, for testing. The first, referred to as "Spin Out 1", consists of equipment and technologies that will provide enhanced situational awareness and communication capabilities for the Current Force through technology insertions to Abrams battle tanks, Bradley Fighting Vehicles and HMMWV vehicles. Spin Out 1 elements include network integration "B" kits consisting of an Integrated Computer System, System-of-Systems Common Operating Environment, Battle Command and Network Management software and communications system including the Joint Tactical Radio System Ground Mobile Radio. Also included are Tactical and Urban Unattended Ground Sensors to provide real-time threat information in complex terrain, and the Non-Line-of-Sight Launch System for remotely controlled precision fires.

A recent Critical Design Review of Spin Out 1 technologies confirmed that they meet design requirements and are ready for integration into current force vehicles and the AETF. Low-rate initial production for Spin Out 1 will support the procurement of 17 Brigade Combat Team sets to be fielded incrementally over a period of seven years, beginning in fiscal year 2008.

FCS MGVs, developed in partnership with BAE Systems and General Dynamics, will provide the Army with a new family of networked vehicles with enhanced armor and protection technology, and next-generation survivability and sustainability features that are required for successful and decisive future battlefield operations. Based on a common chassis, FCS MGVs will be more than 70 percent common, reducing spare parts and logistics costs. The NLOS-C will be the first of the eight MGV variants to be developed and fielded as part of the FCS program. It is designed to provide a networked, extended range precision attack capability against point and area targets in support of FCS Brigade Combat Teams.

Plans call for 18 NLOS-C initial production platforms to be delivered between fiscal years 2010 and 2012 at a rate of six per year, in advance of the Milestone C and low-rate initial production decisions in 2013.

The LSI, in partnership with BAE Systems and General Dynamics, plans to employ various sites for component subassembly, and final vehicle integration, assembly and test activities will be conducted, including Elgin, Okla.; Lima, Ohio; and York, Pa. Once integration and assembly are complete, the NLOS-C vehicles will undergo cannon verification testing at Fort Sill, Okla., then be transferred to Fort Bliss, Texas, and White Sands Missile Range, N.M., for system-of-systems verification testing conducted by the AETF.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA], along with industry teammates and its government customer, the U.S. Missile Defense Agency, successfully completed a key Airborne Laser (ABL) flight test Friday, demonstrating the weapon system's ability to actively track an airborne target, compensate for atmospheric turbulence and fire a surrogate for its missile-killing high-energy laser.

During the test, the modified Boeing 747-400F took off from Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., and used its infrared sensors and its track illuminator laser (TILL) to find and track an instrumented target board located on the U.S. Air Force's NC-135E Big Crow test aircraft. The Big Crow then fired its beacon laser at the ABL aircraft to allow ABL to measure and compensate for laser beam distortion caused by the atmosphere. Finally, ABL fired the surrogate high-energy laser (SHEL) at the Big Crow target board to simulate a missile shootdown. With the exception of ABL's beacon illuminator laser (BILL), this flight test demonstrated the entire engagement sequence from target acquisition to pointing and firing the SHEL.

"This successful test shows that ABL can find and track a target, use its beam control/fire control system to compensate for atmospheric turbulence, and fire a surrogate high-energy laser to simulate a missile intercept," said Pat Shanahan, vice president and general manager of Boeing Missile Defense Systems. "We have now demonstrated most of the steps needed for the Airborne Laser to engage a threat missile and deliver precise and lethal effects against it."

As announced earlier, ABL fired the TILL at the Big Crow target board for the first time March 15. This latest test demonstrated ABL's ability to transition from passive tracking of a simulated missile plume to active tracking, by "walking" the TILL beam to the nose of the missile and using the TILL light returning from the edge of missile for precision tracking and determination of where to point the SHEL on the target. In addition, atmospheric turbulence compensation was performed concurrent with active tracking and SHEL firing.

In upcoming flight tests, ABL will again demonstrate the engagement sequence, but this time use the return from its BILL instead of the Big Crow's beacon laser to measure atmospheric distortion. After these flight tests, the program will install the actual Northrop Grumman-built high-energy laser in the aircraft to prepare for the first intercept test against an in-flight ballistic missile in 2009. The high-power chemical laser has completed rigorous ground testing at Edwards Air Force Base and is being prepared for installation.

Boeing is the prime contractor for ABL, which will provide a speed-of-light capability to destroy all classes of ballistic missiles in their boost phase of flight. Boeing provides the modified aircraft and the battle management system and is the overall systems integrator. ABL partners are Northrop Grumman [NYSE: NOC], which supplies the high-energy laser and the beacon illuminator laser, and Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT], which provides the nose-mounted turret and the beam control/fire control system.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has received U.S. Army authorization for full-rate production and fielding of the new CH-47F Chinook helicopter.

The CH-47F successfully completed U.S. Army operational testing at Fort Campbell, Ky., in April, and now will move forward with First Unit Fielding in July.

"This authorization enables us to support the needs of the warfighter today and well into the future," said Jack Dougherty, director of Boeing H-47 programs.

"The Army put the CH-47F to the test with over 60 hours of rigorous flight test in numerous simulated mission scenarios, including air assault, combat resupply and transport operations," said Ken Eland, Boeing CH-47F program manager. "The successful test and evaluation of the aircraft is a validation of the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in the H-47 program and proves again that the Chinook is ready to meet the diverse requirements of the warfighter."

Operational testing of the CH-47F was conducted by Bravo Company (Varsity), 7th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment, 159th Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault).

The CH-47F helicopter features a newly designed, modernized airframe, a Rockwell Collins Common Avionics Architecture System cockpit and a BAE Digital Advanced Flight Control System. The advanced avionics provide improved situational awareness for flight crews with an advanced digital map display and a data transfer system that allows storing of preflight and mission data. Improved survivability features include Common Missile Warning and Improved Countermeasure Dispenser Systems.

Powered by two 4,868-horsepower Honeywell engines, the new CH-47F can reach speeds greater than 175 mph and transport payloads weighing more than 21,000 lbs. The CH-47F, with the Robertson Aviation Extended Range Fuel System, has a mission radius greater than 400 miles.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] is preparing a response to a U.S. Air Force Request for Proposals for the development and production of an enhanced constellation of Global Positioning System satellites known as GPS III.

The proposal is due Aug. 27, and the potential $1.8 billion contract award for the first eight Block A GPS III satellites along with an option for four more, is anticipated by the end of 2007 to meet a projected 2013 launch.

"GPS III will further evolve navigation and positioning capabilities," said Howard Chambers, vice president and general manager of Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems. "Boeing's GPS III solution delivers accelerated warfighter capability on time with a low-risk, high-confidence program. Our solution, which combines signal and power improvements, is the best value for the nation and will provide a more capable GPS service for both civilian and military users."

Boeing is building on its successful experience of producing 43 GPS satellites to date for Block I, II, IIA and the current IIF series. That heritage ensures GPS III will be compatible with existing civil and military user equipment. Boeing's mature, flexible and scalable GPS III design allows for future capability upgrades while minimizing life cycle costs.

GPS III is set to take navigation timing and accuracy to the next level. Its more powerful broadcast signals will incorporate a new civil signal making it interoperable with Europe's upcoming Galileo system, advanced anti-jamming capabilities and the military signal known as the M-code, which provides more secure operations for the warfighter.

Boeing's current production of 12 GPS Block IIF satellites will begin launching in 2008, and the Architecture Evolution Plan for the GPS ground station will be fully operational in September

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] this week sent 85 public school teachers from around the world to the 16th Annual Boeing Educators to SPACE CAMP® program at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Ala.

The Boeing Educators to SPACE CAMP® program uses space exploration initiatives to enhance teachers' skills in presenting math, science and technology lessons that will inspire students and help ensure a skilled workforce for a globally competitive technology market. Since 1992, more than 600 teachers have participated in the annual Boeing program, reaching an estimated 30,000 students around the world.

The teachers, from grades 4-12, will spend their days completing workshops designed by grade level. Activities include simulated space missions, astronaut training and lectures by rocketry and space exploration experts. The teachers also will receive resources to implement in the classroom to help their students meet national standards for science, math and technology.

"SPACE CAMP® provides a learning environment where science, math and technology are explored and practiced through the mysteries and wonders of space," said Julie Ferriss, director of Education at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center and graduate of the Space Academy for Educators. "For educators, SPACE CAMP® provides a place to become a learner again and to join with other educators who share the same passions for teaching and learning."

Boeing worked with U.S. and international school districts to select applicants for the program. This year, educators from Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Washington, D.C., Georgia, Kansas, Maryland, Missouri, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah and Virginia will learn what it takes to become an astronaut and how to inspire future engineers and scientists. Additionally, teachers ventured from Australia, India, Japan and Singapore to participate in the learning experience.

After graduating from SPACE CAMP® on July 15, each teacher will return home with a workbook to create lesson plans and additional program materials to use in the classroom. The graduates also will have access to an educator training facility and a Web site offering science experiments and other curriculum information.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has delivered the second of three C-40C transport aircraft to the U.S. Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC), providing a critical airlift asset to government leaders on official business.

Gen. Duncan McNabb, chief of the Air Force's Air Mobility Command (AMC), accepted the aircraft July 5 at Boeing facilities in Seattle and flew it to Scott Air Force Base (AFB), Ill., where it will begin service with the AFRC.

The 932^nd and 375^th Airlift Wings, units of the AFRC and AMC respectively, will use the Next-Generation 737-700 Boeing Business Jet derivative to provide congressional delegations and senior government personnel safe, secure and reliable transportation -- often to remote locations around the world -- while supporting their need to conduct in-flight business.

"With the kind of next-generation, multi-mission capability this beautiful airplane gives us, we not only can take great care of our distinguished visitors but also perform air evacuation, transport cargo or provide team travel if we need to," said McNabb. "It allows us the range and versatility we've always hoped for, and now the Boeing team has delivered those requirements in the size of platform we need."

Maureen Carlson, Boeing C-40C program manager, added, "In working together with our Commercial Airplanes unit and Mission Integration Center, we incorporated lessons learned on the first aircraft to deliver this second one in three months' less time. This will enable Gen. McNabb and our Air Mobility and Air Force Reserve customers to assure availability of a critical asset to our nation's leaders."

The modifications made to the aircraft include military avionics that augment the 737's commercial flight deck; satellite communications equipment for passenger use; a reconfigurable interior that comprises 40 business-class seats, two work areas with conference table or divan and accommodations for 11 crew members; and auxiliary fuel tanks that extend the aircraft's range to approximately 4,400 nautical miles.

The airplane joins a family of 17 C-40s already in service with the U.S. government: three C-40Cs with the Air National Guard at Andrews AFB, Md., as well as the one already delivered to AFRC at Scott AFB; four Air Force C-40Bs supporting the U.S. Combatant Commands at Andrews, Ramstein AFB, Germany, and Hickam AFB, Hawaii; and the U.S. Navy Reserve's nine C-40As stationed at Naval Air Stations North Island, Calif., Fort Worth, Texas, and Jacksonville, Fla.

Engineers at The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] have recently completed 50 percent of the design for the new 777 Freighter. The completion of this work means that half of the detailed design of the 777 Freighter is defined and has been released to Boeing factories and its suppliers to begin building parts, assemblies and tools for the new cargo airplane.

"The 777 Freighter team has done a tremendous job working with our customers and program partners to define what will be the world's most capable twin-engine freighter," said Kim Pastega, deputy program manager and engineering leader, 777 Freighter Program, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "We are seeing strong market acceptance for the 777 Freighter, along with a growing cargo market around the world. We have a broad set of customers for the new airplane that includes traditional cargo operators, airlines and leasing companies."

Boeing is on schedule to complete the detailed design work and is on track to meet its commitments for the 777 Freighter's performance capabilities, Pastega said.

The 777 Freighter will provide more capacity than any other twin-engine freighter and the lowest trip cost of any large freighter. The 777 Freighter has a revenue payload capability of 229,000 lbs (104 metric tonnes) and a range of 4,885 nautical miles (9,045 kilometers) with a full payload and general cargo market densities, making it the longest-range twin-engine freighter.

Boeing launched the 777 Freighter in May 2005 with an order from Air France for five freighters. Boeing continues to work closely with Air France and other customers to complete the new cargo airplane's design.

"We have been pleased with the strong partnership we have had with Boeing throughout the development of the 777 Freighter," said Pierre Vellay, vice president of New Aircraft and Corporate Fleet Planning, Air France. "We look forward to introducing this new airplane into our cargo fleet that will increase our business performance with its fuel efficiency."

The first 777 Freighter will be delivered to Air France in the fourth quarter of 2008. To date, Boeing has 71 orders for the 777 Freighter from 11 customers, including Air France, Avion Group, Emirates, FedEx Express, Qatar Airways, Guggenheim Aviation Partners, Korean Air, GE Commercial Aviation Services, Oak Hill Capital Partners and two unidentified customers.

The 777 Freighter is designed to complement 747 cargo operations with the ability to transfer shipments directly between the two airplanes. The main cargo door of the 777 Freighter will be sized to accommodate 10-foot-high (three-meter) pallets for easy interlining with 747 freighters. The 747 freighter fleet comprises about half of the world's freighter capacity.

The 777 Freighter, the sixth and newest model of the 777 family, is based on the 777-200LR Worldliner (Longer Range) passenger airplane. It will share the 777 family's advanced features such as: state-of-the-art flight deck, fly-by-wire design and an advanced wing design that includes raked wingtips. The airplane will be powered by the GE90-110B1L engine, a de-rated version of the world's most powerful commercial jet engine the GE90-115B

With training from Boeing [NYSE: BA] engineers and help from two robotic arms, Space Shuttle Atlantis astronauts today will install a Boeing-built truss element that will provide an extra boost of power to the International Space Station (ISS).

Part of the space station's backbone, the Starboard 3 (S3) and 4 (S4) truss element's batteries and solar arrays will ensure continuous electrical power to the outpost, even when the station is eclipsed by the Earth's shadow.

"The S3 and S4 Boeing hardware will provide a much-needed boost in power as well as balance out the spacecraft when it gets attached to the starboard side of ISS," said Mike Raftery, Boeing Space Exploration ISS deputy program manager.

During the seven-hour installation, astronauts will carefully remove the hardware from Atlantis' payload bay and transfer it to the space station using the shuttle's robotic arm. Once captured by the station's arm, the astronauts will maneuver and attach S3 and S4 to the starboard, or right side, of the station. The crew will activate the truss element during an additional scheduled spacewalk.

The truss element is equipped with two solar arrays for collecting electrical power from the sun, a solar rotary joint to keep the arrays permanently pointed toward the sun and 12 batteries to power the station when it cannot receive sunlight for 35 minutes during its 92-minute circuit around the planet.

"At 35,678 pounds, the S3/S4 truss assembly is the largest space station cargo that the U.S. has flown to date. Each battery is as big as a large suitcase, and the solar arrays will provide a total operating power capability of about 20 kilowatts, equivalent to the power used by 16 typical U.S. homes at any given moment," said Raftery.

After this mission, the total ISS power output will be around 50-60 kilowatts, depending on attitude and the angle of the sun. The new arrays will contribute about half that power.

As NASA's prime contractor for the orbiting outpost, Boeing is responsible for the design, development, integration, testing and delivery of the U.S.-built elements of the ISS. The S3 and S4 truss element is the second starboard addition to the 11-segment integrated truss structure that eventually will span more than 300 feet to carry power, data and temperature control for the station's electronics.

"This mission is another step closer to completing the assembly of the International Space Station, and Boeing continues to play an important role in one of the most challenging engineering feats ever attempted in space," said Brewster Shaw, vice president and general manager for Boeing Space Exploration.

Besides carrying two additional Unpressurized Cargo Carrier Attach Systems, the S3 and S4 truss element is identical to the Boeing-built Port 3 and 4 truss element delivered to the space station last summer.

Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled to return to Kennedy Space Center, Fla., at 2:44 p.m. eastern on June 19, following its 11-day mission to the ISS.

After this mission, the total ISS power output will be around 50-60 kilowatts, depending on attitude and the angle of the sun. The new arrays will contribute about half that power.

Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled to return to Kennedy Space Center, Fla., at 2:44 p.m. eastern on June 19, following its 11-day mission to the ISS.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has been awarded a $19 million U.S. Air Force contract to provide Mission Training Center (MTC) services for F-16 pilots at Shaw Air Force Base, S.C.; Misawa Air Base in Japan; and Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany.

The contract provides continued F-16 MTC services for up to five years and will contribute directly to the readiness of F-16 units.

"Boeing is pleased to have the opportunity to provide the U.S. Air Force with continued service for the F-16 MTCs," said Tony Jones, vice president of Boeing Training Systems and Services (TSS). "We bring years of experience in providing the warfighter a Distributed Mission Operations capability for the F-15C MTCs and anticipate similar success with F-16 MTC operations."

Each F-16 MTC provides four high fidelity F-16 simulators with a 360-degree visual system, robust synthetic environment, instructor/operator stations and brief/debrief stations. The simulators can be operated individually or linked together to provide four-ship training, both within the MTC and linked to the Distributed Mission Operation Network. Boeing supports this training capability with several key TSS products, including the Visual Integrated Display System and Big Tac Combat Environment Server.

Lockheed Martin Simulation, Training and Support, a major subcontractor to Boeing, will provide the instructor/operator stations, crewstation hardware and simulation software, image generation systems and databases, and contractor logistics support. BGI, LLC will provide F-16 subject matter expertise.

"With the F-15E MTCs beginning service this year, Boeing will be responsible for providing local and distributed training capability for three of the Air Forces' primary operational fighter aircraft," said Jones. "We welcome the challenge to continue to support customer readiness and shape Distributed Mission Operation capabilities for years to come."

Boeing is the prime contractor for the F-15C MTC contract and has delivered and continues to operate MTCs at Eglin, Langley, Elmendorf and Kadena Air Force Bases and Royal Air Force (RAF) Lakenheath. As the F-15E MTC prime contractor, Boeing is responsible for the design, development, construction and integration of MTCs at Mountain Home and Seymour Johnson Air Force Bases and RAF Lakenheath, with the first F-15E MTC at Mountain Home starting service later this year.

The contract provides continued F-16 MTC services for up to five years and will contribute directly to the readiness of F-16 units.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and ANA today announced that the airline will install Boeing's Class 3 Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) in three new 777-300ERs to be delivered beginning this year. The airline's decision is significant because ANA is the first Japanese airline to use Boeing's EFB on a commercial flight and because it represents the first Boeing EFB purchase by ANA, one of the world's leading 777 operators. Boeing delivered ANA's first 777-300ER with the Electronic Flight Bag in April. ANA has taken delivery of 39 777s and has eight more on order.

The Boeing Class 3 EFB is a pilot-dedicated flight-deck computer integrated into an airplane's avionics that has become a must-have device for airlines looking to improve both the safety and efficiency of their 777 fleets.

"In today's competitive environment, airlines must be able to show the flying public and the financial community that they are embracing the latest available technology to make flights as efficient, comfortable and reliable as possible," said Mitsuo Morimoto, ANA Executive vice president, Flight Operations. "Our selection of Boeing's Electronic Flight Bag sends exactly the right message to our customers and other stakeholders."

Boeing's EFB has recorded more than 1,000 total orders since it was introduced for sale in 2002. It has been ordered for Next-Generation 737s, 747s, 757s, 767s, 777s and 787s (the Class 3 EFB comes as standard equipment on the 787 Dreamliner).

"ANA is a respected airline that other airlines watch," said Dan da Silva, vice president of Sales and Marketing for Boeing Commercial Aviation Services. "When an airline of that stature orders Boeing's Class 3 EFB, it sends a powerful message to all the world's airlines that the Class 3 EFB is reaching a tipping point."

Boeing's Class 3 EFB can serve as a critical communications gateway between the airplane in the sky and an airline's operations center and maintenance department on the ground. The EFB, designed to be integrated with other Boeing e-Enabled solutions such as Airplane Health Management and Maintenance Performance Toolbox, is a core technology in Boeing's vision of an e-Enabled air-transport system in which data, information and knowledge can be shared and used across an aviation enterprise.

Boeing's EFB also has the capability to run advanced communications systems that improve aviation safety both in the air and on the ground. Applications currently being tested include some that improve the "situational awareness" of pilots by allowing them to follow airplane movements on the ground and in the air on a video screen. Some carriers have successfully tested Boeing's EFB to help reduce fuel consumption and reduce the impact of airplane noise pollution around airports.

Using software developed by Boeing and its subsidiary, Jeppesen, the Boeing EFB provides an open-architecture platform that allows the airline to add its own documents or third-party applications.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today delivered the Royal Australian Air Force's (RAAF) second C-17 Globemaster III during a ceremony at the company's Long Beach, Calif., C-17 manufacturing facility.

Senior RAAF officials, led by Air Commodore Jack Plenty, commander, Air Lift Group, joined Boeing leaders and selected employees for the event.

"The acceptance of the second RAAF C-17 was eagerly anticipated by the Australian Defence Force," said Plenty. "Our C-17 squadron already has conducted several inter-continental, time-critical tasks over the past five months since the arrival of the first aircraft in December 2006. These tasks could never have been achieved if we did not have such a responsive global airlift capability."

The latest advanced airlifter joins the RAAF's first C-17 at the No. 36 Squadron, a combat airlift unit based in RAAF Base Amberley, west of Brisbane. The remaining two RAAF C-17s under contract to Boeing will arrive in Australia in 2008.

"Once again, our Boeing team has made good on its commitment to deliver our customer a world-class airlift capability, on time and on budget," said Dave Bowman, Boeing vice president and C-17 program manager.

Australia's C-17s are part of a worldwide fleet that also includes 164 U.S. Air Force C-17s and four United Kingdom Royal Air Force (RAF) aircraft. The RAF will receive its fifth C-17 in early 2008. Boeing will deliver the first of four C-17s to the Canadian Forces in August. Boeing is on contract to design, build, deliver and support 190 U.S. Air Force C-17s. The last scheduled delivery is in mid-2009.

The C-17 is the world's only tactical airlift aircraft with strategic capabilities. Capable of flying between continents and landing on short, austere runways, the C-17 is used globally for both military and humanitarian missions.

Three large composite fuselage sections arrived in Everett today for the all-new Boeing (NYSE: BA) 787 Dreamliner.

The all-composite forward section -- known as section 41 and shown here wrapped in white -- is manufactured by Spirit AeroSystems at its facility in Wichita, Kan. The complex structure is 21 feet in diameter and 42 feet long. Its landing gear is installed.

Sections 47 and 48, wrapped in black, are the two aft composite sections of fuselage for the Dreamliner. They were manufactured and joined by Vought Aircraft Industries at its facility in Charleston, S.C. Section 47 is 23 feet long and 19 feet in diameter while section 48 measures 15 feet long and 14 feet in diameter.

The sections were delivered to Boeing early this morning via the Dreamlifter, a specially modified 747-400 used to transport 787 major assemblies. The aircraft arrived at 6:39 a.m. local time. The major assemblies were immediately unloaded and delivered to the 787 final assembly factory.

"Today's delivery represents more than 40 percent of the 787's fuselage structure," said Scott Strode, 787 vice president of Airplane Definition and Production. "We now have all the major structure for the rear of the airplane, and its distinctive nose. The Dreamliner is beginning to take shape."

These are the second and third pieces of major structure delivered by the Dreamlifter in recent weeks. The horizontal stabilizer arrived on April 25.

The 787 Dreamliner is the fastest-selling airplane in aviation history, with firm orders for 567 airplanes from 44 airlines.

The first Boeing [NYSE: BA] F/A-18F Super Hornet retrofitted with an aft cockpit Joint Helmet-Mounted Cueing System (JHMCS) has arrived at Strike Fighter Squadron 213 (VFA-213), the first U.S. Navy fleet squadron to fly the aircraft with the dual-cockpit system.

The "Blacklions" of VFA-213, based at Naval Air Station Oceana, Va., will use the cueing system to significantly enhance in-flight crew coordination.

The JHMCS gives flight crew members the ability to rapidly acquire and designate a target simply by looking at it. The two-seat version of the system places a JHMCS helmet on both crew members, giving each the capability to aim weapons and sensors as well as a visual indication of where each crew member is looking.

"The Navy received its first JHMCS production systems five years ago and continues to be a strong supporter of this capability," said Phil King, Boeing JHMCS program manager. "Warfighters praise JHMCS for its enhanced situational awareness and mission effectiveness."

The Navy awarded Boeing a $4.4 million contract in November 2005 to provide aft cockpit helmets in F/A-18F and EA-18G aircraft scheduled for delivery beginning this October. Thirty-four U.S. Air Force and Navy squadrons worldwide currently use the JHMCS.

Warfighters used JHMCS operationally for the first time during Operation Iraqi Freedom. By placing an aiming cross, projected on the helmet visor, over the desired target and pressing a button, pilots can quickly and easily aim weapons and sensors to designate and attack airborne or ground targets. JHMCS also displays aircraft altitude, airspeed, attitude and tactical information on the visor to increase situational awareness.

As prime contractor and integrator for JHMCS, Boeing has contracted for more than 2,000 systems over the past six years. Vision Systems International, based in San Jose, Calif., is the major subcontractor.

June 2

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today delivered the first of 13 C-17 Globemaster IIIs to Dover (Del.) Air Force Base (AFB) officials during a ceremony at the company's Long Beach, Calif., C-17 manufacturing facility.

The newest C-17 is named the "Spirit of the Constitution" in honor of Delaware being the first of the original 13 U.S. colonies to ratify the U.S. Constitution on Dec. 7, 1787. This is the 165^th C-17 that Boeing has delivered to the U.S. Air Force.

"The Air Force chose to name Dover's first C-17 the 'Spirit of the Constitution' to honor the heritage of our host state of Delaware," said Col. Steven B. Harrison, 436^th Airlift Wing commander.

The Delaware base will officially welcome the new C-17 on June 4, when the Commander of the U.S. Air Force Air Mobility Command, Gen. Duncan J. McNabb, flies the Globemaster III into Dover for a planned ceremony.

Delaware's 436^th Airlift Wing, which has been preparing for its C-17s since early 2006, will receive another six aircraft by the end of 2007. Boeing will deliver the remaining six aircraft in 2008. Earlier this year, the wing activated its 736^th Aircraft Maintenance and 3^rd Airlift Squadrons during a joint change of command ceremony.

The new C-17s will give Dover AFB valuable tools in the fight against terrorism, while allowing it to support humanitarian missions when needed, Harrison said.

"The C-17 is able to land on short, minimally-prepared airfields, does the work of multiple airlifters and is the most reliable, flexible and technologically advanced airlift aircraft ever built," said Dave Bowman, Boeing vice president and C-17 program manager.

The U.S. Air Force's existing C-17 fleet has amassed more than 1.2 million flying hours -- and in the global war on terrorism, has flown combat missions with record-setting reliability rates. With a payload of 160,000 pounds, the C-17 can take off from a 7,600-foot airfield, fly 2,400 nautical miles and land on 3,000-foot dirt runways. The C-17 also is a key component for providing quick and efficient humanitarian aid to the victims of natural disasters such as tsunamis, hurricanes and earthquakes.

With the new C-17 at Dover, C-17s are now based at Charleston Air Force Base, S.C.; McChord Air Force Base, Wash.; the Air National Guard Base at Jackson, Miss.; McGuire Air Force Base, N.J.; March Air Reserve Base, Calif.; Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii; Travis Air Force Base, Calif.; and Altus Air Force Base, Okla.

Boeing is on a multi-year production contract to design, build and deliver 190 C-17s to the U.S. Air Force through mid-2009. The worldwide fleet also includes two Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) C-17s and four United Kingdom Royal Air Force (RAF) C-17s. Boeing will deliver two more aircraft to the RAAF and one more aircraft to the RAF, all in 2008. Later this year, Boeing will deliver the first of four C-17s to Canada.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] has been awarded a $4.2 million U.S. Air Force contract for the next phase of the Dual Role Air Dominance Missile -- Technology (DRADM-T) program, one of several efforts to develop technologies for the Joint Dual Role Air Dominance Missile (JDRADM).

JDRADM is the first next-generation advanced missile intended to conduct both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions in a single weapon.

DRADM-T focuses on the missile's propulsion and control systems. Boeing was selected following a competitive six-month Phase 1 study effort. Phase 2 will refine the technologies and configuration, leading to laboratory and ground testing. Boeing's Advanced Weapons and Missile Systems unit, part of Boeing Advanced Systems, will perform the work in St. Charles, Mo. The contract runs for 32 months.

Keith Smith, Boeing program manager for JDRADM, said, "The selection of Boeing for Phase 2 of the DRADM-T program demonstrates our customer's confidence in Boeing to develop the key technologies that will make the future JDRADM weapon a reality."

In 2006, Boeing competed for and won the warhead technology thrust program -- Multi-Role Responsive Ordnance Kill Mechanism -- of the JDRADM weapon. Boeing is currently executing the program's Phase 2 design and development efforts.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has been awarded a $3 million Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency contract to test an innovative main rotor system that promises quieter operation, reduced vibration and potentially improved performance for military helicopters like the AH-64D Apache Longbow.

Boeing will test the "Smart Rotor" over the next year at NASA Ames Research Center's 40 by 80-foot wind tunnel in California to study the system's forward flight characteristics and gather data to validate state-of-the-art aero-acoustic analysis codes. These codes are used to predict a variety of data that help identify the cause of rotor noise, allowing engineers to study and compare alternate designs.

Boeing previously validated the robustness and authority of the modified commercial MD 900® rotor system on its whirl tower in Mesa, Ariz.

"If the technology shows the predicted benefits of this advanced system, we may consider adding it to the Apache helicopter to significantly enhance its performance," said Friedrich Straub, Smart Rotor project engineer.

The system, which incorporates several new technologies that make it more capable and quieter than existing rotors, includes trailing edge blade flaps controlled by on-blade piezo electric actuators and control electronics that optimize flap motions. The system, Straub added, ultimately could be applied to other military and civil aircraft as well.

The MD 900 rotor system, designed by Boeing engineers before the company sold the MD 900 production line to MD Helicopters, Inc., in 1999, provided an ideal test platform to study enhancements to the system.

Boeing [NYSE:BA] has become one of the newest members of the Billion Dollar Roundtable, an organization that brings together major corporations that make meaningful and measurable contributions to the economic growth of woman-owned and minority-owned companies. Don McKneely and Sharon Patterson, roundtable co-founders, formally introduced Boeing as one of the newest member companies at a reception last night in New York.

"As a co-founder and host of the Billion Dollar Roundtable, I applaud Boeing for its commitment to support diverse firms and the communities where they operate," said McKneely, chairman of the organization.

The roundtable was created in 2001 to recognize and bring together corporations that achieved spending of at least $1 billion annually with minority- and woman-owned suppliers. The organization promotes and shares best practices in supply chain diversity excellence, and encourages dialogue on common issues, opportunities and strategies related to diverse business.

Boeing, which spent more than $2 billion with minority- and woman-owned businesses in 2006, was welcomed as part of the roundtable's biannual induction of new member companies. The company was selected following a rigorous application and review process, including an independent third-party audit to verify its eligibility for the roundtable.

Joan Robinson-Berry, Boeing director of Supplier Diversity for its Integrated Defense Systems business, will represent the aerospace company on the roundtable's board of directors.

"Boeing has a long-standing commitment to small and diverse businesses," Robinson-Berry said. "We strive to find opportunities to utilize the skills and technology of these companies, and for more than 50 years we have maintained a formal supplier diversity program.

"I am thrilled to have the chance to share through the roundtable the creative ways Boeing has sought and found opportunities for small and diverse businesses over the years," Robinson-Berry continued. "I also look forward to the chance to learn from other roundtable members, because working with a vibrant small and diverse supplier community is good for our customers, good for the economy and good for Boeing."

Boeing joins on the roundtable outstanding corporations in the telecommunications, automotive, aerospace, consumer goods, and retail industries. The combined Billion Dollar Roundtable membership celebrated collective purchases of more than $24 billion in products and services from minority- and woman-owned suppliers in 2006.

"Boeing recognizes that diversity brings strength, innovation and flexibility to our supply base," said John Tracy, Boeing senior vice president of Engineering, Operations and Technology, whose responsibilities include companywide oversight of the Supplier Management function. "Tapping the skills and technologies of small, minority- and woman-owned businesses has played a vital role in helping us maintain our position as a global leader in aerospace--and will continue to do so."

May 17

Boeing Reaches Tentative Agreement with Machinists Union in St. Louis

ST. LOUIS, May 16, 2007 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today announced that it has reached a tentative agreement for a new three-year contract with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers District 837. Once ratified by the union membership, the contract will provide approximately $24,000 in additional compensation over the term of the agreement.
-- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today announced that it has reached a tentative agreement for a new three-year contract with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers District 837. Once ratified by the union membership, the contract will provide approximately $24,000 in additional compensation over the term of the agreement.

The company's pay and benefits package provides an average of 9.5 percent in wage increases, significant improvements in retirement benefits, and a comprehensive and affordable health care program.

"This contract recognizes the contributions employees have made to the company's success and addresses today's business realities so that Boeing St. Louis can remain competitive in the years ahead," said Steve Jacques, IDS vice president of manufacturing and St. Louis lead for the negotiations. "We look forward to getting this contract approved so we can continue to meet the needs of our customers and deliver the amazing products and services they have come to expect from our team."

Key features of the contract offer to approximately 2,500 represented employees include:

Lump-sum payments: $2,500 in 2007; $2,500 in 2008. Each payment represents an average of 3.5 percent in pay.

General Wage Increases: 4 percent in 2007; 3 percent in 2009.

Increased Retirement Benefits: A 17 percent increase in pension benefit to $70 per month for each year of service for employees who retire on or after July 1, 2007.

The contract offers a comprehensive range of health care options. Further details of the contract proposal are available online at http://www.boeing.com/ids/2007negotiations/stl

Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced orders for 11 787-8 Dreamliners and 50 Next-Generation 737s with TUI Group, Europe's largest integrated-tourism company. The orders were previously recorded on Boeing's Orders and Deliveries Web site as unidentified. The value of the orders is approximately $4.7 billion at list prices. Two of the airplanes have since been delivered and identified.

New-technology benefits such as lightweight composites and innovative engine technology will allow TUI Group airlines to implement ongoing efficiency improvements.

"The 787's unprecedented environmental performance will make it an incredibly valuable asset as we look to reduce our carbon output," said Dr. Michael Frenzel, chairman of the TUI AG board. "The 787 will offer a 20 percent reduction in emissions and has a 60 percent smaller noise footprint for our airport communities. It is the green airplane we need for greener operations."

TUI Group has not announced an engine supplier for its 787s.

TUI Group plans to put the airplanes into service with Arkefly in The Netherlands, Belgium-based Jetairfly, Thomsonfly of the United Kingdom, Germany-based TUIfly and the Scandinavian operator TUIfly Nordic. All TUI Group airlines will leverage the 787's breakthrough economics, passenger appeal and environmental efficiency to continue and expand services within Europe and to Asia and North America.

The Next-Generation 737s will be operated on short- and medium-haul routes by all TUI airlines.

All of the 737s will be fitted with advanced Blended Winglets, which reduce aerodynamic drag, thereby increasing fuel efficiency and range while reducing carbon emissions and takeoff noise.

"Boeing is extremely proud of the partnership that exists with the TUI Group," said Marlin Dailey, vice president of Sales for Europe, Russia and Central Asia, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "As a company that operates throughout Europe, TUI will capture significant benefits by operating a common fleet of Next-Generation 737s and 787s across the group. The ability to move aircraft from one fleet to another to satisfy changing demands will allow TUI to be extremely nimble and flexible - a must in today's highly competitive environment. TUI can also reap the benefits of a mixed fleet flying both the 737 and the 787."

To assist TUI, Boeing is working to create a training program that will allow pilots to transition easily from one airplane type to another, so that cross-training costs are minimized and fleet efficiency is maximized.

The selection of the Next-Generation 737 reflects the airplane's great success with TUI Group airlines.

"TUI's order is a reaffirmation of the value that airlines derive from the 737's exceptional economics, technology, reliability and environmental performance," Dailey said.

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner provides passengers with a better flying experience and operators with more efficient commercial jetliners. Using 20 percent less fuel per passenger than similarly sized airplanes, the 787 is designed for the environment with lower emissions and quieter takeoffs and landings. Inside the airplane, passengers will find cleaner air, bigger windows, more stowage space and improved lighting.

Forty-four customers worldwide have placed 567 orders for the 787 since its launch in April 2004, making the Dreamliner the world's fastest-selling commercial airplane. The 787 enters service in 2008.

The digitally designed Next-Generation 737 is the most technologically advanced airplane in the single-aisle market. With a bigger wing and more powerful engines, the 737 can fly higher, faster and farther than previous models and its competitor.

As of April 30, Boeing had received orders for more than 3,800 Next-Generation 737s, and has unfilled orders exceeding 1,500 airplanes, worth over $100 billion at current list prices.

Final Major Structure for Boeing 787 Dreamliner Delivered to Everett

EVERETT, Wash., May 16, 2007 -- The final major assembly for the Boeing [NYSE: BA] 787 Dreamliner was delivered to Everett early today.
-- The final major assembly for the Boeing [NYSE: BA] was delivered to Everett early today.

The integrated midbody fuselage consists of section 43, a forward fuselage section made by Kawasaki Heavy Industries; section 11/45, the center wheel well and center wing tank, made by KHI and Fuji Heavy Industries and joined at FHI; and sections 44 and 46, center fuselage sections made by Alenia Aeronautica. It was joined at Global Aeronautica in Charleston, South Carolina. The fuselage measures 84 feet long and 19 feet in diameter.

It was flown to Everett in the Dreamlifter, a specially modified 747-400 used to transport major 787 assemblies. The Dreamlifter touched down at 1:58 a.m. Wrapped in black, the fuselage filled the cargo bay of the Dreamlifter. Barely six inches of clearance surrounded the structure.

"What an accomplishment for our entire 787 team," said Scott Strode, 787 vice president of Airplane Definition and Production. "This fuselage section represents the hard work of hundreds of people around the globe. The Dreamliner is no dream anymore - it's real, and it's here."

The fuselage was taken immediately into the 787 final assembly factory. Final assembly of the first 787 has not yet begun, but today's delivery takes the team one step closer to that goal.

Wings for Boeing 787 Dreamliner Delivered to Everett

EVERETT, Wash., May 15, 2007 -- The gigantic composite wings for the all-new Boeing [NYSE: BA] 787 Dreamliner were delivered to Everett at 4:10 a.m. PDT today.
-- The gigantic composite wings for the all-new Boeing [NYSE: BA] 787 Dreamliner were delivered to Everett at 4:10 a.m. PDT today.

Manufactured by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries at its facility in Nagoya, Japan, each wing is 98 feet long. Standing on edge in custom-made tooling, the wings were delivered together to Boeing via the Dreamlifter, a specially modified 747-400 used to transport 787 major assemblies. The 787 is the first commercial aircraft to use composite materials as its primary structure. It is also the first Boeing aircraft featuring an all-composite wing.

"A composite wing of this size has never been built before," said Scott Strode, 787 vice president of Airplane Definition and Production. "This is a tribute to our fantastic team. We believe the Dreamliner sets a new standard for how commercial airplanes will be made in the future."

The wings were immediately delivered to the 787 final assembly factory. Additional work -- including attaching the wingtip and movable surfaces -- will be completed by Boeing. The total wingspan of a 787 is 197 feet.

The 787 Dreamliner is the fastest-selling airplane in aviation history, with firm orders for 567 airplanes from 44 airlines.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] announced today that its 777 jetliner fleet has completed its 1 millionth flight under regulations for extended operations (ETOPS). Based on reported and projected 777 fleet data, Boeing estimated the 1 millionth 777 ETOPS flight occurred on May 11.

"The 1 millionth 777 ETOPS flight is a result of our point-to-point product strategy to develop airplanes that fly people directly where they want to go," said Larry Loftis, vice president-general manager, 777 Program, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Early in its development we set out on a deliberate path to make the 777 the first airplane to enter service ready to fly ETOPS routes."

Under ETOPS regulations, airplanes are allowed to fly long-distance routes that take far them from the nearest airport. The 777 was designed specifically to have the reliability and redundancy to safely traverse those long-distance routes governed by extended operations rules. The 777 was also the first twin-engine airplane to fly routes over the new North Polar Routes between the U.S. and Asia that began in 2000.

"Following the success of 767 ETOPS flights, the 777 has further proven the safety and reliability of twin-engine airplanes for long-haul flights," said Loftis. "Today, Boeing twin-engine airplanes serve the majority of routes that cross the Atlantic and they are beginning to dominate routes across the Pacific as well."

The introduction of the 777 has helped lead to an increase in trans-Pacific routes that connect city pairs with nonstop service. Since 1995, city pairs served with direct trans-Pacific routes have increased by about 50 percent.

For passengers, ETOPS provides them the direct, nonstop flights they prefer, in addition to more flight options and greater choice in travel times, Loftis added.

The journey to reach 1 million ETOPS flights for the 777 began with its entry into service on June 7, 1995. The first revenue-generating flight for the 777 was a trans-Atlantic ETOPS flight by United Airlines. To date, the 777 fleet has accumulated a total of more than 14 million flight hours, the majority on ETOPS flights. The 767 is the only other twin-engine airplane to surpass 1 million ETOPS flights, reaching that milestone in April 1998.

In February 2007, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) enacted ETOPS regulations that update and codify existing rules and best practices and extend ETOPS standards to three- and four-engine airplanes. The new regulations also shift the basis of ETOPS approvals to the designed and certified capabilities of the airplane itself, setting the stage for properly configured and approved twinjets to fly optimal routings between virtually any two cities on earth. Boeing has stated its objective is to certify some versions of the 777 and 787 to 330-minute ETOPS.

The 777 family of airplanes is popular with passengers and airlines because of its fuel-efficient twin-engine design, high reliability, low operating costs and spacious cabin interior. The 777 is the market leader in the 300 to 400-seat segment, consistently capturing more than 65 percent of that market since its launch. Boeing continues to enhance the 777 family with the recent introduction of two new longer-range models and a freighter version currently in development. To date, 52 customers around the world have ordered 952 777 jetliners.

A map indicating 777 ETOPS routes around the world is available here

May 4

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Copa Airlines executives today said the Panamanian airline placed an order for four Boeing 737-800 airplanes in a deal valued at approximately $282 million at list prices.

The order brings to 34 the number of Next-Generation 737s Copa has ordered. The four 737s announced today were previously posted to an "unidentified customer" on the Boeing Commercial Airplanes orders and deliveries website.

"Copa Airlines continues to validate the technology and economics of the Next-Generation 737 by providing passengers with innovative route options and increased flight frequencies using the 737," said Boeing Commercial Airplanes Vice President, Sales, for Latin America and the Caribbean, John Wojick. "Flying out of Panama with the Next-Generation 737s, Copa is able to provide passengers with flights where they want to go, nonstop."

Copa now operates 24 Next-Generation 737s, with 10 - including those announced today -- remaining to be delivered.

"This new order reinforces our commitment to our passengers by allowing us to continue expanding through additional frequencies and destinations, offering our passengers the most comfortable and convenient options for travel between the most important Latin American cities" said Pedro Heilbron, CEO of Copa Airlines.

Copa was the first carrier in the Americas to incorporate blended-winglets on the 737-700. All of its Next-Generation 737s use the distinctive curved wing ends, which improve fuel efficiency and lift while reducing engine wear and carbon dioxide emissions. Copa also was the first in the region to order Next-Generation 737s with the Vertical Situation Display (VSD) system, which provides pilots with an easy-to-understand flight-path view.

Copa operates from Tocumen International Airport, a time-saving hub on long routes between the United States, South and Central America, and the Caribbean. It flies four of the world's longest 737 routes from there -- to Buenos Aires, Santiago, Sao Paulo and Los Angeles -- thanks to the 737's exceptional range.

The Next-Generation 737 is the newest and most technologically advanced single-aisle airplane. It flies higher, faster and farther than previous models and competitors. In addition, its flight deck features the latest liquid-crystal flat-panel displays and is designed to accommodate new communications and flight-management capabilities.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and Jet Airways, India's largest private airline, on Monday celebrated the delivery of the airline's first of 10 777-300ER (Extended Range) airplanes. The airplane was delivered in Jet Airways' new paint scheme, that features a new design, colors and typeface. The airplane will enter service on May 5, commemorating the airline's 14th anniversary of operations.

"Jet Airways' new design is reflective of our new efforts to take our superior passenger service to international destinations in Europe and the United States," said Jet Airways Chairman Naresh Goyal. "The combination of the 777-300ER's positive economics and passenger comfort will help ensure the success and profitability of our growing route structure."

Jet Airways, which originally placed the order for 10 777-300ERs in September 2005, currently operates 49 Classic and Next-Generation Boeing 737-400/-700/-800/-900 airplanes within its fleet. In December 2006, the airline also placed an order for 10 787 Dreamliners.

"The 777-300ER delivers real advantages and has proven its economic leadership and high level of passenger comfort," said Dinesh Keskar, Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president of Sales. "We are honored that Jet Airways has selected Boeing's 777s and 787s to support its international growth strategy."

The 777 family of airplanes is popular with passengers and airlines because of its fuel-efficient twin-engine design, high reliability, low operating costs, and comfortable and spacious interior. The 777-300ER typically carries 365 passengers up to 7,930 nautical miles (14,685 kilometers).

With the 787 and 777, Boeing offers a complete family of airplanes to cover the 200- to 400-seat market segment. With complementary range, speed, efficiency and operational commonality, yet differing seating and cargo capacities, airlines can use both models in their fleets to tailor capacity to meet seasonal demand.

Jet Airways operates more than 330 daily flights to 49 destinations that span the length and breadth of India and beyond including London, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Colombo and Kathmandu.

The 777 family of airplanes is the market leader in the 300 to 400-seat segment, capturing more than 65 percent of that market. Boeing continues to enhance the 777 family with the recent introduction of two new longer-range models and a freighter version currently in development.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and the U.S. Air Force marked the 18th anniversary of the activation of the first Global Positioning System Block II satellite on April 14. The GPS Block II/IIA constellation went on to achieve 100 percent mission success, with 28 flawless launches aboard Delta II launch vehicles.

"This milestone really said a lot about our GPS team," said U.S. Air Force Col. Wesley Ballenger, GPS program manager at the Space and Missile Systems Wing at Los Angeles Air Force Base. "It highlighted how hard the Air Force and our Boeing teammates worked on the advances that made GPS II and IIA icons of quality and reliability."

The GPS Block II constellation has shown remarkable on-orbit durability. Each satellite launched between 1989 and 1997 had a six-year mean mission duration. Half of them remain functional today, exceeding their life expectancy by an average of more than 12 years. The U.S. Air Force and Boeing have produced 40 Block I, II and IIA GPS satellites after more than 30 years of teamwork.

"This record is a testament to the Boeing team's dedication to quality and customer service," said Boeing GPS Program Director John Duddy. "The GPS team takes great pride in providing this crucial, 24-hour worldwide service and really knows what it takes to satisfy customers."

Building on this success, Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems is building 12 next-generation GPS Block IIF satellites under contract from the Navstar GPS Wing at the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center in Los Angeles. The Block IIF satellites are expected to carry new capabilities such as full expanded military code, a new civil signal known as L-5, crosslink enhancements, signal power increases and greater design life. Through its work on GPS IIF and its preliminary design work for the upcoming GPS III competition, Boeing is working closely with the U.S. Air Force to deliver new, advanced GPS capabilities to the military, civil government and the general public as early as possible.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] today submitted its final cost volume bid to NASA for production of the Ares I crew launch vehicle upper stage.

The Boeing-led team provided a tailored proposal designed to meet or exceed NASA requirements by leveraging best-of-industry suppliers, including several with advanced technology development contracts on critical Ares I systems.

"We offer unique capability to NASA's Ares I team, bringing value based on our experience in commercial, defense and space programs, along with innovation and new advocacy and outreach efforts," said Jim Chilton, Boeing vice president of Exploration Launch Systems. "We are completely committed to delivering NASA a safe, affordable and producible upper stage."

Boeing's team of suppliers include Hamilton Sundstrand, a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. [NYSE: UTX], Moog Inc. [NYSE: MOG.A and MOG.B], Northrop Grumman Corporation [NYSE: NOC], Orion Propulsion Inc., SUMMA Technology Inc., United Space Alliance and the United Launch Alliance.

"We recognize our suppliers are critical to our proposal, and we have worked closely with them to ensure they know our processes, approaches, people and tools and that their capabilities precisely match NASA's needs," said Chilton. "Boeing and its suppliers are fully prepared to continue our collaboration with NASA and are positioned to begin work immediately upon contract award."

Boeing submitted two earlier volumes: one on past performance on March 16 and another on mission suitability and plans on April 2. Delivery of this final Ares I upper stage production proposal volume culminates more than a year-long effort to bring Boeing's best lean manufacturing practices to NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans, La., where the upper stage will be built. NASA is expected to award the Ares I upper stage production contract in late August or early September.

Ares I, which will transport the Orion crew exploration vehicle to low Earth orbit, is an essential element of the nation's space exploration program that will return astronauts to the moon no later than 2020.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today honored the small businesses that support its NASA Checkout, Assembly and Payload Processing Services (CAPPS) contract during a recognition event in Cape Canaveral, Fla.

Small businesses recognized by Boeing Space Exploration leaders for their support of the CAPPS contract include CNI/All Points Logistics, Inc., Creative Management Technology, Inc., Indyne and Yang Enterprises, Inc.

"Boeing thanks this community for their exceptional small business performance. Our success and future competitiveness depend on them to execute the intricate work we do for the nation's space program," said John Elbon, Boeing Space Exploration vice president and Constellation program manager and Florida site executive.

NASA, in support of federal government contract agreements, requires prime contractors to place a specified percentage of their contracted effort with small businesses.

"Our small business teammates at Kennedy Space Center have enabled us to perform in an excellent manner, manage our costs and exceed our NASA customer requirement of 19 percent small business participation for the past five years," said Mark Jager, Boeing program manager for NASA's Checkout, Assembly and Payload Processing Services contract.

Boeing is employing similar strategies with other space-based efforts, including the competition for the Ares I upper stage production and instrument unit avionics contracts. For example, NASA's proposal requirement for the Ares I crew launch vehicle, the first human-rated launch vehicle since the space shuttle, stipulates that 17.3 percent of the contract work go to small businesses.

"Partnerships with small business form a key part of the strong supply chain we are offering for the Ares 1 upper stage production. We exceed 17.3 percent not because it's a requirement, but because it makes good business sense. Boeing has already proven we can exceed this level based on our CAPPS contract performance," said Jim Chilton, vice president of Boeing Exploration Launch Systems, who is leading the Ares I team.

Boeing is committed to identifying opportunities for small businesses and works with the local chambers of commerce and economic development commissions to locate additional resources.

"The Economic Development Commission of Florida's Space Coast enjoys a strong partnership with Boeing in supporting the many small business endeavors in our community," said Lynda Weatherman, president and CEO, Economic Development Commission of Florida's Space Coast.

May 1

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Continental Airlines today announced that the airline will be the first U.S. carrier to use the Boeing Class 3 Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) on its 777s. Boeing has delivered the second of two 777-200ER airplanes equipped with the Class 3 Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) to Continental Airlines. The airline accepted delivery of their first EFB-equipped 777-200ER in March. Continental also selected the Boeing EFB to retrofit on its previously purchased 777s.

Certified for all phases of operation on the ground and in the air, Boeing's Class 3 EFB is integrated into an airplane's avionics. The Boeing EFB digitally delivers charts and manuals that pilots need to fly an airplane, giving them immediate access to critical information.

"We are very pleased to see the EFB take flight with Continental, as it is highly consistent with our companywide initiative to be paperless wherever possible," said Mark Moran, Continental's executive vice president-operations. "Having this technology on the flight deck makes this advanced aircraft even more capable."

EFB is a core technology in Boeing's vision of an e-Enabled air-transport system in which data, information and knowledge can be shared easily across an enterprise. The Class 3 device has the ability to serve as a critical communications gateway between the airplane in the sky and an airline's operations center and maintenance department on the ground.

"Continental is helping to pave the way for other airlines by implementing the best technology available to upgrade flight decks to the highest levels of safety and efficiency," said Dan da Silva, vice president of Sales and Marketing for Boeing Commercial Aviation Services.

Using software developed by Boeing and its subsidiary, Jeppesen, the Boeing EFB provides a scalable, open-architecture platform that allows the airline to add its own documents or third-party applications. The fact that the Class 3 EFB is integrated into an airplane's avionics allows the tool to be certified for all phases of operation on the ground and in the air.

A Boeing [NYSE: BA] employee guides the second C-130 Avionics Modernization Program (AMP) aircraft in preparation for a recent flight test. The aircraft, H2.5, successfully completed its maiden flight from Lackland Air Force Base (AFB) in San Antonio, Texas, March 25. Boeing is scheduled to deliver H2.5 to the U.S. Air Force Flight Test Center at Edwards AFB, Calif., later this month.

The U.S. Air Force initiated the modernization program to consolidate multiple C-130 avionics configurations in its fleet. The C-130 AMP provides enhanced digital avionics that significantly increase situational awareness for the warfighter. Upgrade commonality brought by the AMP offers additional flexibility in assigning aircrews regardless of the model design type.

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines took delivery of its 15th Boeing 777-200ER (Extended Range) last Friday from Paine Field in Everett, Wash., north of Seattle. KLM is leasing the airplane from International Lease Finance Corp. (ILFC). KLM, part of the Air France KLM Group, operates the 777-200ER on long-haul international routes from its Amsterdam base to cities such as Cape Town, Los Angeles and Tokyo.

To complement its existing fleet, the airline has ordered the 777-300ER and currently has a total of 19 777s in operation and on order through direct purchase and lease agreements. "Our aim is to have a young and technologically advanced fleet of wide-body airplanes to get the best performance and value available on the market today. And, equally important to us and the communities we serve, the 777 is quiet and CO2 efficient," said Peter Hartman, president and chief executive officer of KLM. The airplane arrived at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport on April 28.

Turkish Technic, a wholly owned subsidiary of Turkish Airlines, has adopted Boeing's [NYSE: BA] Web-based maintenance solution, Maintenance Performance Toolbox, to help improve the maintenance of its fleet of 14 Classic 737s and 41 Next-Generation 737s.

Turkish Technic will use available Toolbox modules including Library, Tasks, Structures, Authoring and Systems. These modules will help the airline streamline an array of maintenance and repair activities including managing technical publications and training, customizing online maintenance manuals, updating and tracking maintenance task cards, and performing core maintenance and engineering tasks.

"In a competitive market such as ours, we must remain committed to operating as efficiently as possible and using our most expensive assets, our airplanes, to their fullest," said Ismail Demir, general manager of Turkish Technic. "Boeing's Maintenance Performance Toolbox will help us achieve faster turnarounds so that we can keep our airplanes in the air. This is where our customers, and our investors, want us to be."

Boeing's innovative suite of aircraft maintenance software tools is the industry's first set of productivity tools designed to unify an airline's maintenance and engineering operations from start to finish.

"Maintenance Performance Toolbox has become a must-have solution for airlines committed to maximizing their efficiency," said Dan da Silva, vice president of Sales and Marketing for Boeing Commercial Aviation Services. "Precisely because Turkish Airlines is so respected as an efficient 737 operator, this endorsement is a great validation for us."

Accessible via an Internet browser as a secured, hosted service, Toolbox is a key component within Boeing's evolving portfolio of performance-enhancing products for aircraft maintenance. Boeing will provide reliable access to the Toolbox tools for Turkish Technic through its secure Internet portal, MyBoeingFleet.com. Only an Internet connection, password and computer -- a laptop, desktop or pen tablet -- are necessary to access the system.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has been awarded a $7.1 million U.S. Navy contract to provide a ship-wide communications network for three guided missile destroyers (DDG).

Under the agreement, Boeing will support the installation and checkout of the Fiber Optic Data Multiplex System (FODMS) for DDG 110 and complete the design of the Gigabit Ethernet Data Multiplex System (GEDMS) for DDGs 111 and 112.

"As the Navy's design agent for FODMS and GEDMS hardware and software, Boeing provides a system that best meets the requirements for modernizing the fleet of DDG 51 Class destroyers and LHD 1-7 amphibious assault ships. This ensures crew safety and fleet survivability," said Jay Nieto, Boeing DMS/FODMS/GEDMS program manager.

The FODMS/GEDMS network is a complete information transfer system that enhances reliability, maintainability and survivability by managing data from the ship's navigation, steering control, damage control, machinery control, combat and internal communications systems.

Currently, DMS/FODMS is installed on 45 percent of naval surface combatants and 34 percent of all surface ships. With the addition of GEDMS, shipboard networking will be available on 65 percent of naval surface combatants and 42 percent of all surface ships. FODMS provides 100 Megabits of bandwidth, compared to 24 Megabits for DMS. GEDMS will provide 1 Gigabit of bandwidth.

The contract, awarded by the Naval Sea Systems Command in Washington, D.C., will be managed by Boeing C3 Networks' Data Multiplex Systems (DMS) and FODMS/GEDMS program. Work will be conducted in Anaheim, Calif., and Arlington, Va., and is expected to be completed by November 2011.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and launch- customer Lion Air today celebrated the delivery of the first Next-Generation 737-900ER (Extended Range) airplane. The airplane was delivered in a special dual paint scheme that combines the Lion Air lion on the vertical stabilizer and the Boeing livery colors on the fuselage. Boeing launched the 737-900ER program in July 2005 when Jakarta-based Lion Air announced the initial order for 30 of the newest 737 model. To date, Lion Air has ordered 60 737-900ERs.

"This is a proud day for me and the Lion Air family as we take delivery of the world's first 737-900ER," said Rusdi Kirana, president director of Lion Air. "The unprecedented economic advantages, passenger comfort and superior reliability of this airplane are key to our growth as we expand our routes and add new destinations."

The 737-900ER, the newest member of the Next-Generation 737 airplane family, increases the capability of the 737 by carrying more passengers and flying farther.

"We thank Lion Air for having the confidence and vision to become the launch customer of the 737-900ER," said Dinesh Keskar, Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president of Sales. "With more range and the lowest operating cost of any single-aisle jet in its class, the 737-900ER will deliver superior economics and premier service to support Lion Air's strategic expansion plans."

The twin-engine jet incorporates a new pair of exit doors and a flat rear-pressure bulkhead that allow a maximum capacity of 220 passengers in a single-class layout.

Aerodynamic and structural design changes, including strengthened wings, a two-position tailskid, enhancements to the leading and trailing-edge flap systems, optional Blended Winglets and auxiliary fuel tanks, will allow the 737-900ER to accommodate higher takeoff weights and increase its range to 3,200 nautical miles (5,900 km).

The 737-900ER will have substantial economic advantages over competing models, including 9 percent lower operating costs per trip and 7 percent lower operating costs per seat, and 565 nautical miles more range than the A321, which is more than 10,000 pounds (4,536 kg) heavier. The 737-900ER joins the 737-600, -700, -700ER and -800 airplanes and will share the same industry-leading reliability of the other Next-Generation 737 series models.

As of March 31, 2007, eight customers have placed orders for 104 Next-Generation 737-900ERs, and more than 6,800 orders have been placed for 737s.

Lion Air operates an all-Boeing fleet and is the largest low-cost airline in Asia with traffic approaching one million passengers per month since the airline's inception in June 2000.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has begun flight testing the AC-130U Gunship with new 30 mm cannons at Hurlburt Field, Fla.

Boeing is modifying four gunships for the U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command by installing and testing the cannons so existing airplanes have increased combat effectiveness. The AC-130U features increased weapon stand-off range, improved first-shot accuracy, and a suite of electronic and infrared countermeasures that greatly enhance its survivability. Boeing will deliver the gunships later this year.

The Bushmaster 30 mm cannons protrude from the gun ports of AC-130U gunships as shown during tests in January at Hurlburt Field. The 30 mm cannon eventually will replace both the 40 mm cannon and 25 mm gun on U-model gunships.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Arik Air today announced an order for three 787-9s, two 777-200 LRs (Longer Range) and two 777-300ERs (Extended Range) at the delivery ceremony for two new 737-700s that will soon begin operations from the airline's home base in Lagos, Nigeria. The list-price value of the new order is approximately $1.5 billion. The airplanes were previously listed as unidentified on Boeing's Orders & Deliveries website.

Lee Monson, Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president of Sales for the Middle East and Africa, formally announced Arik Air's order for the twin-aisle jets while hosting the airline's chairman, Sir J.A.I. Johnson; the managing director, Mike McTighe; and Dr. Harold Olusegun Demuren, director general of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, as well as a large visiting delegation from Nigeria.

"This is a big day for Boeing and for the advancement of Nigeria's aviation sector," Monson said. "We know from our many strong relationships with African carriers that viable airlines play an instrumental role in countries' economic development. We're proud that acquiring new Boeing jets is integral to Arik Air's plans for modernization as they grow and prosper."

Arik Air is the fourth airline on the African continent to order Boeing's fast-selling 787 Dreamliner, as well as the fourth to order the market-leading 777. Boeing is currently working with Arik Air as the airline moves toward achieving Category 1 status with the FAA so that it may fly direct routes to and from the U.S.

"Arik Air has demonstrated its commitment to providing reliable, world-class air travel to and from Nigeria with an aggressive acquisition plan for the world's most modern and advanced commercial jets," said Arik's McTighe. "This will allow for a staged and strategic expansion plan both regionally and internationally that provides the utmost in passenger comfort and safety."

Launched in 2006, Arik Air is growing its fleet to 16 airplanes by June, and they will serve up to 11 domestic routes. In addition to bringing new airplanes into operation, the airline is also taking a leading role in contributing to the improvement of Nigeria's aviation infrastructure as a whole.

"Nigeria's aviation sector has truly turned a corner and is headed in the right direction," said Dr. Demuren, who was selected last year to lead Nigeria's Civil Aviation Authority. "It's very rewarding to be here today witnessing firsthand the unveiling of Arik Air's new Boeing Next-Generation 737s and to know Boeing is committed to work with Nigeria as we implement vast and far-reaching commercial aviation improvements throughout the country."

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, scheduled for entry into service in 2008, provides passengers with a better flying experience, and operators with a more efficient commercial jetliner. With the Dreamliner, Boeing continues its leadership and innovation with a mostly composite airplane that uses 20 percent less fuel per passenger than similarly sized airplanes. The 787 is designed for the environment with lower carbon emissions and quieter takeoffs and landings. Inside the airplane, passengers will find cleaner air, bigger windows, more stowage space and improved lighting.

Since the 787 launch in April 2004, 44 customers worldwide have logged 567 orders worth more than $75 billion at current list prices, making the Dreamliner the most successful commercial airplane launch in history.

The 777 family of airplanes is the market leader in the 300 to 400-seat segment, consistently capturing more than 65 percent of that market since its launch. To date, 52 customers worldwide have placed 952 orders for the efficient, reliable and passenger-pleasing 777 jetliner. Boeing continues to enhance the 777 family with the recent introduction of two new longer-range models and a freighter version currently in development.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] today confirmed that Russia's S7 Group has ordered 10 Next-Generation 737-800s and secured purchase rights for an additional 10 of the world's most popular jetliner. The aircraft have been carried as "unidentified" on the Boeing order Web site since last November. At list prices, the order is valued at $705 million.

Moscow-based S7 Group will operate the aircraft through S7 Charter, a newly-established charter airline that will use its 737-800s on routes connecting Moscow to numerous popular resort destinations outside of Russia.

"We thoroughly analyzed all aircraft currently available in the market before making our final decision," said Vladislav Filev, chief executive officer of S7 Airlines. "As a result, we chose the Next Generation Boeing 737-800, which we believe is the best aircraft of its class, is known for its reliability and fuel-efficiency, and which perfectly fits the S7 routes."

"This is another strong endorsement of the 737," said Craig Jones, Boeing vice president of Sales for Russia. Speaking at the announcement ceremony in Moscow, Jones added, "S7 Charter will use these new 737-800s to give its customers the best service available in terms of reliability and comfort."

The Boeing 737-800 is the best-selling version of the highly successful Next-Generation 737 family, the most technologically advanced airplanes in the single-aisle market. The Next-Generation 737's market success has been confirmed by investors who consistently rank it as the most preferred single-aisle airplane due to its wide market base, superior performance efficiency and lowest operating costs in its class.

Since its introduction in 1997, more than 100 customers have ordered more than 3,700 Next-Generation 737s. Boeing has an unfilled order book of more than 1,500 Next-Generation 737 airplanes worth more than $100 billion.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] played a key role in today's eighth successful intercept of a ballistic missile target by the Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) and the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) Weapon System.

The test, Flight Test Maritime-11 Event 4 (FTM-11), further validated efforts by the U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA) and the U.S. Navy to provide a sea-based defense against short- to intermediate-range ballistic missile threats. FTM-11 Event 4 was the second test of the Block IA version of the SM-3 and the first test of the Block IA with a full-capability solid divert and attitude control system (SDACS). The SDACS maneuvers the kinetic warhead (KW) to the target using multiple pulses of gas generated by the SDACS propellant. Boeing builds several components of the KW, including the guidance electronics, which it integrates with the Raytheon infrared seeker.

"This test successfully demonstrated the modified SM-3 Kinetic Warhead's performance for the first time in an exo-atmospheric intercept. The test showed that modifications made over the last two years have been effective and the SM-3 and its Kinetic Warhead provide the system performance needed by the warfighter to defeat ballistic missile attacks," said Debra Rub-Zenko, vice president of Boeing Integrated Missile Defense. "Boeing is proud to be a member of the industry team committed to providing this extraordinarily effective operational capability to MDA and the Navy."

The SM-3 Block IA, fired from the guided missile cruiser USS Lake Erie, destroyed the short-range ballistic missile target launched from the Navy's Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauai, Hawaii. Once the Aegis BMD system guided the SM-3 to the right point in space, the SM-3 kinetic warhead successfully acquired the target and computed an accurate guidance and control intercept trajectory for the hit-to-kill intercept.

Boeing has partnered with Raytheon on SM-3 development since 1996 and is under subcontract to integrate and test the KW avionics, guidance and control hardware and software, as well as the ejection subsystem. In addition to SM-3 round integration, Raytheon provides the KW infrared seeker, the signal and image processor and the integrated KW software.

In addition to its work on the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense program, Boeing holds key roles in several other elements of the U.S. Ballistic Missile Defense System architecture. Boeing is prime contractor for the Ground-based Midcourse Defense system and the Airborne Laser. It also develops and produces the seeker for the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) Missile.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and Oak Hill Capital Partners, a leading private equity firm, today announced an order for six Boeing 777 Freighters. The order is valued at about $1.4 billion, at list prices.

The six-airplane order brings Boeing's total for the twin-engine freighter to 71 airplanes from 10 customers since its launch in May 2005. Oak Hill will be purchasing these planes through a new aircraft leasing platform that it is establishing in connection with the purchase.

"This is a great opportunity for us to work with the excellent team at Oak Hill Capital Partners as our newest 777 customer," said Ray Conner, vice president, Sales - Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Oak Hill is well positioned to help in expanding the customer base for the 777 Freighter by allowing operators to experience the superior economics and reliability for which the 777 family is known."

Rowan Taylor, a partner with Oak Hill Capital Partners, added, "This is an important component of Oak Hill's overall aerospace investment strategy. We look forward to continuing to work with the Boeing team to expand our aircraft portfolio."

The 777 Freighter is based on the 777-200LR Worldliner (Longer Range) passenger airplane. The twin-engine cargo airplane provides revenue payload capability of 229,000 pounds (104 tonnes) with a range of 4,885 nautical miles (9,047 km), and the lowest trip cost of any large freighter.

The 777 Freighter will have unmatched capacity for a twin-engine freighter and is designed to facilitate easy cargo transition with the Boeing 747 Freighter, the world's most popular cargo airplane. Both models are capable of 10-foot-high (3.1-meter) loads and load densities up to about 10 pounds per cubic foot (160 kg per cubic meter).

The 777 Freighter will be powered exclusively by the world's most powerful commercial jet engine, General Electric's GE90-110B1L, and will meet QC2 noise standards for maximum accessibility to noise-sensitive airports.

Boeing is the undisputed air cargo market leader, providing more than 90 percent of the total worldwide dedicated freighter capacity. Boeing projects that global air cargo will grow by an average 6.1 percent annually during the next 20 years.

Oak Hill Capital Partners is a private equity firm with more than $4.6 billion of committed capital from leading entrepreneurs, endowments, foundations, corporations, pension funds and global financial institutions. Robert M. Bass is a lead investor. During a period of nearly 20 years, the professionals at Oak Hill Capital Partners have invested in more than 50 significant private equity transactions. Oak Hill Capital Partners is one of several separate Oak Hill partnerships, each of which has a dedicated and independent management team. These Oak Hill partnerships comprise more than $20 billion of investment capital across multiple asset classes, including private equity, special situations, high yield and bank debt, venture capital, real assets, public equity and hedge funds.

Today, the Oak Hill partnerships' aerospace investments include (i) Primus International, Inc., a leading global Tier 2 supplier of structural components, kits and assemblies, (ii) Cargo 360, Inc., a leading global air cargo service provider and (iii) a portfolio of aircraft on lease to airlines around the world.

The newest member of the Boeing Next-Generation 737 family, the 737-900ER (Extended Range), earned type certification from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration on April 20.

The 737 derivative incorporates an extra pair of exit doors to increase the maximum passenger capacity, a flat aft-pressure bulkhead to increase interior volume, a two-position tailskid for improved takeoff and landing capability, wing strengthening changes to accommodate the 13,500 pound maximum takeoff weight increase, enhancements to the leading and trailing edge flap systems for improved takeoff and landing capability, and optional Blended Winglets and auxiliary fuel tanks that increase the range of the 737-900ER to 3,200 nautical miles (5,925 km).

The airplane is certified to carry up to 220 passengers in a single-class configuration.

On July 18, 2005, Indonesia's Lion Air launched the higher capacity, longer range Next-Generation 737-900ER with an order for 30 airplanes. Airlines have ordered more than 100 Next-Generation 737-900ERs to date.

The airplane is shown here during flight testing.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and New Delhi-based SpiceJet today announced that the airline has ordered 10 Next-Generation 737-800s. The order, valued at more than $700 million at list prices, follows previous orders in February 2005 and August 2006 for a total of 30 737s.

"The 737's reliability, low operating cost and passenger comfort provide unmatched value for both SpiceJet and its customers," said SpiceJet board director Bhulo Kansagra. "These aircraft are enabling us to add capacity on new and existing routes, and will continue to support SpiceJet's mission of being India's preferred low-cost airline."

The 10 737s will be fitted with Blended Winglets, which will improve fuel efficiency, increase range, and reduce CO2 emissions and takeoff noise.

"The 737 continues to play an integral role in meeting the needs of India's rapidly growing aviation market, and SpiceJet's commitment to the Next-Generation 737 is a key example of the success of this airplane," said Dinesh Keskar, vice president of Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The 737-800, with its combination of 189 seat count, range, fuel efficiency, low maintenance, and overall economics, is the most efficient airplane in the market, serving a broad range of business models worldwide."

SpiceJet, one of India's newest start-up private carriers, uses a single-class seating configuration on its short- and medium-haul flights within India. SpiceJet began service in May 2005 with three leased Boeing 737-800s, and today operates a fleet of 11 737-800s.

The digitally designed Next-Generation 737 is the most technologically advanced airplane family in the single-aisle market. With a bigger wing and more powerful engines, the 737 can fly higher, faster and farther than its competitor. The 737-800, which can seat from 162 to 189 passengers, is 1,500 pounds lighter, can fly 260 nautical miles farther and 1,100 feet higher while carrying 12 more passengers than the competing model.

As of March 31, 2007, the Next-Generation 737 has logged 104 customers who have placed orders for more than 3,700 Next-Generation 737s, and has more than 1,500 unfilled orders with a value of more than $100 billion at current list prices.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] this month successfully completed a critical Global Positioning System (GPS) Space Segment III System Design Review, supporting the U.S. Air Force's requirement for a low-risk, high-confidence acquisition solution.

During the review, Boeing demonstrated the technical readiness of its GPS III payload design that will allow the Air Force to field and upgrade GPS satellites quickly and cost effectively. This solution, combined with signal power improvements, provides a more capable GPS service for civilian and military users.

"We clearly showed the technical maturity and backward compatibility of our flexible and scalable design for the Air Force," said Charles Toups, vice president, Boeing Navigation and Communication Systems, a unit of Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems. "We designed the GPS III system to be scalable so the design of the first spacecraft can gracefully grow to accommodate future capability upgrades without requiring an entirely new spacecraft design. This approach greatly reduces costly and time intensive re-qualification and shortens the development time to deploy new capabilities."

The Air Force is expected to award the multi-billion dollar GPS III contract soon in order to meet a projected launch need in 2013. Boeing's "back-to-the-basics" space system acquisition plan positions Boeing and the Air Force to move forward with detailed design development and, eventually, GPS III production.

GPS III will provide improved navigation and timing accuracy and broadcast more powerful signals that are less vulnerable to jamming. It also will incorporate a new civil signal that is interoperable with Europe's upcoming Galileo system. Boeing's adaptable GPS III design allows the government to provide enhanced position, navigation and timing information while effectively managing lifecycle costs.

Boeing is working closely with the U.S. Air Force to deliver new, advanced GPS capabilities to the military, civil government and general public as early as possible. This includes Boeing's current production of 12 GPS Block IIF satellites under a contract from the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center in Los Angeles. Boeing will deliver the first GPS IIF satellite in 2008.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today confirmed an order by Air Canada, announced Tuesday by the airline, for 23 Boeing 787 Dreamliners. The order brings to 37 the number of 787s ordered by the airline. Air Canada has ordered more Dreamliners than any other carrier in the Western Hemisphere.

The 23 787s are worth approximately $3.5 billion at list prices. The order brings the total number of announced firm 787 orders to 567 from 44 customers. As part of today's deal, Boeing and Air Canada agreed to cancel two 777 freighter orders.

"Air Canada will be among those airlines prepared to provide passengers with the most modern flying experience possible using the 787 -- higher cabin humidity, large windows, a lower cabin altitude and more cabin space," said Ray Conner, vice president, Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

Air Canada was the 25th airline to select the 787 Dreamliner when, in 2005, it ordered 14 ultra-efficient 787s.

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is being designed with airlines, passengers, investors and the environment in mind. The technologically advanced airplane will use 20 percent less fuel than today's airplanes of comparable size, provide customers with up to 45 percent more cargo revenue capacity, and present passengers with innovations including a new interior environment with higher humidity, wider seats and aisles, larger windows, and other conveniences.

Final assembly for the all-new Boeing [NYSE: BA] 787 Dreamliner is one step closer with the April 24 arrival in Everett of the horizontal stabilizer.

Manufactured by Alenia Aeronautica at its facility in Foggia, Italy, the horizontal stabilizer is transported in five pieces - the left and right stabilizer, two elevators and a center. The shipment configuration measures nine feet wide, 13 feet high and is 42 feet long. It was delivered to Boeing late yesterday via the Dreamlifter, a specially modified 747-400 used to transport 787 major assemblies. The horizontal stabilizer was loaded into position in the 787 final assembly bay earlier today. The completed assembly has a wing span of approximately 62 feet and measures 32 feet fore/aft.

"In the coming weeks we will receive other major assemblies for the first Dreamliner," said Scott Strode, 787 vice president of Airplane Definition and Production. "This is a very exciting time for the program."

The 787 Dreamliner is the fastest-selling airplane in aviation history, with firm orders for 544 airplanes from 44 airlines.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Virgin Atlantic today announced an environmental partnership, which includes an order for 15 787-9 Dreamliners, marking the largest 787 order to date for Europe.

The order, worth approximately $2.8 billion at list prices, was previously listed on Boeing's Orders and Deliveries Web site and attributed to an unidentified customer. The order also includes options for an additional eight 787-9s and purchase rights for an additional 20 787s.

"Virgin Atlantic is pleased to introduce the Boeing 787 Dreamliner as our aircraft of the future," said Steve Ridgway, chief executive officer, Virgin Atlantic. "This revolutionary aircraft will bring a step change to the industry, substantially reducing environmental impact and incorporating innovative design and advanced technology, while providing an enhanced flying experience for our passengers."

The environmental partnership includes a joint biofuel demonstration aimed at developing sustainable fuel sources suitable for commercial jet engines and the aviation industry. The demonstration, scheduled for 2008 using a Virgin Atlantic Boeing 747-400, is being worked jointly with GE Aviation and Virgin Fuels. Further details will be announced later this year.

In addition, Boeing and Virgin Atlantic are working together on reducing fuel burn and cutting aircraft emissions on the ground by exploring alternatives to traditional aircraft operations at airports. For example, Boeing and Virgin Atlantic are partnering on trials of towing airplanes to "starting grids," areas close to the active runway to start engines preflight, with a goal of reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions by up to 50 percent, as well as limiting community noise. Trials conducted thus far at London's Heathrow and Gatwick Airports and San Francisco International Airport have produced positive results, and work continues to develop alternative operational procedures at the world's busiest airports.

"Virgin Atlantic has demonstrated extraordinary leadership within our industry on addressing environmental impact, and Boeing is proud that the 787 Dreamliner is such an important ingredient of the airline's plan for the future," said Scott Carson, president and chief executive officer, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Working together in partnership, Boeing and Virgin Atlantic will develop innovative, environmentally progressive solutions to provide greater fuel efficiency and lower aircraft emissions."

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, scheduled for entry into service in 2008, provides passengers with a better flying experience, and operators with a more efficient commercial jetliner.

With the 787 Dreamliner, Boeing continues its leadership and innovation with a mostly composite airplane that uses 20 percent less fuel per passenger than similarly sized airplanes. The 787 is designed for the environment with lower carbon emissions and quieter takeoffs and landings. Inside the airplane, passengers will find cleaner air, bigger windows, more stowage space and improved lighting.

Since the 787 launch in April 2004, 44 customers worldwide have logged 544 orders worth more than $75 billion at current list prices, making the Dreamliner the most successful commercial airplane launch in history.

April 24

Boeing [NYSE: BA] named Randy Tinseth vice president, Marketing, for Boeing Commercial Airplanes. Tinseth will be responsible for marketing Commercial Airplanes' entire family of products and services through a wide range of activities, such as understanding market requirements, contributing to Commercial Airplane's planning and product development, supporting market positioning and sales activities, as well as hosting the Commercial Airplanes blog, "Randy's Journal." The position reports to Mike Cave, vice president, Business Strategy and Marketing.

Tinseth, 47, succeeds Randy Baseler, who is retiring April 30.

"Randy Tinseth brings to this role a superb understanding of the market and our airline customers," said Cave. "This is a seamless transition as he continues the exceptional work done in recent years by Randy Baseler in sharing our product strategy story. And, of course, there's the added plus that we won't be forced to change the name of the very popular 'Randy's Journal' blog."

In his previous role on the 747-8 Program, Tinseth was responsible for developing marketing and in-service support strategies for the new 747-8 program, executing sales, and working with the customer base. Named to the position in March 2006, he helped prepare the market for the introduction of the 747-8, refining the focus on the unique service offerings for this airplane family.

Tinseth previously served as director of Product and Service Marketing, where he was responsible for marketing Boeing's commercial airplanes and services to airlines, financial institutions and other constituencies around the world. During this period, the Marketing team launched innovations such as the new 787 livery, the "Name Your Plane" effort that led to the selection of the Dreamliner name, and the "newairplane.com" Website.

From 1997 to 2001, Tinseth was a Boeing sales director in North America, leading Commercial Airplanes sales efforts at United Airlines, Northwest Airlines, United Parcel Services, and Spirit Airlines.

He started in Marketing in 1989 with a management position in the Airplane Economics Group, and worked as part of the team that implemented new versions of Boeing's aircraft maintenance and operating cost models.

Tinseth joined Boeing in June 1981 as a flight test engineer and engineering lead on the certification of the Boeing 757 and 767.

Born in Kalispell, Montana, Tinseth holds a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from Cornell University, and in 1986 received a master's in business administration from Seattle University.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Aviation Capital Group (ACG) today announced that the leasing company has placed an order for 15 Next-Generation 737s and five 787 Dreamliners.

The order, worth approximately $1.6 billion at list prices, was previously attributed to an unidentified customer on the Boeing Orders and Deliveries Web site.

"We are delighted to add the Boeing 787 Dreamliner to our portfolio. This aircraft represents a significant step forward for mid-size widebody aircraft," said R. Stephen Hannahs, group managing director and chief executive officer of ACG. "Of course, the Next-Generation 737 continues to be an outstanding performer for airlines and is an excellent leasing asset."

ACG's current fleet contains 138 Boeing aircraft, which includes Next-Generation 737s, 737 Classics, 757s and 767s.

With today's announcement, ACG has a backlog of 52 Boeing airplanes on order. In December 2006, ACG announced that it had acquired delivery positions for 15 Next-Generation 737s from Delta Air Lines. In July 2006, ACG placed an order for 14 Next-Generation 737s and announced that it had agreed to acquire six additional Next-Generation 737s from Aeromexico, with a simultaneous agreement to lease the aircraft back to the airline.

"Boeing is proud of its partnership with ACG and the important role the Next-Generation 737 has played in its growing fleet size and market presence," said John Feren, vice president of Sales â€“ Leasing and Asset Management, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "With today's endorsement of the 787 Dreamliner, ACG is significantly expanding its widebody fleet, bringing its airline customers breakthrough technology, best-in-class fuel efficiency and lower operating costs."

The Next-Generation 737 family is the most technologically advanced airplane family in the single-aisle market. The Next-Generation 737's market success is confirmed by air finance investors, who consistently rank it as the most preferred airplane due to its wide market base, superior performance efficiency and lowest operating costs in its class. As of March 31, 104 customers have placed orders for 3,734 Next-Generation 737s. Unfilled orders for the model exceed 1,500 airplanes, worth over $100 billion at current list prices.

The technologically-advanced 787 Dreamliner will use 20 percent less fuel than today's airplanes of comparable size, provide airlines with up to 45 percent more cargo revenue capacity, and present passengers with innovations including a new interior environment with higher humidity, wider seats and aisles, larger windows, and other conveniences. Since its launch in April 2004, 44 customers have announced 544 orders for the 787.

One of the top five aircraft leasing enterprises in the world, Aviation Capital Group is owner/lessor and portfolio manager of a diversified fleet of commercial jet aircraft leased to the world's leading airlines. Its portfolio includes more than 200 aircraft leased to 95 airlines in 43 countries. ACG's Capital Markets Group also provides asset management and remarketing services to aircraft investors and institutional clients. ACG was founded in 1989 and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Pacific LifeCorp.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and iRobot Corp. [NASDAQ: IRBT] today announced they have signed a teaming agreement to design and develop a next-generation, small unmanned ground vehicle (SUGV) called the SUGV Early. The vehicle will provide military, civil and commercial users with unprecedented reconnaissance and secure, real-time intelligence capabilities.

The SUGV Early will be a smaller, lighter version of the iRobot PackBot, which is used daily in Iraq and Afghanistan to safely disarm Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and search buildings, caves and tunnels for hostile forces. To date, iRobot has delivered more than 900 PackBot robots to a broad range of military and civilian customers worldwide. The robots have performed tens of thousands of missions in Iraq and Afghanistan and are credited with saving soldiers’ lives.

The remotely operated and highly maneuverable SUGV Early will feature a video camera and commercial electro-optics, infrared sensors mounted on an articulated manipulator arm and a track-driven chassis that will allow it to negotiate rough terrain and stairs. The 30-pound backpackable unit is designed for use in a wide range of hazardous situations, such as bomb disposal and disaster relief operations. The system, which utilizes commercial off-the-shelf technology and employs the basic design of future networked robotic systems currently under development for the U.S. Army, will be ready for delivery in 2008.

"This partnership allows Boeing and iRobot to combine our expertise, capabilities and resources to provide customers with a small robotic vehicle that can perform a variety of surveillance missions and assist soldiers, law enforcement officials and rescue workers performing high-risk operations," said Dennis Muilenburg, vice president and general manager, Boeing Combat Systems. "The SUGV Early builds on lessons learned from users of the combat-proven iRobot PackBot, as well as experimentation using next-generation prototypes, to provide a solution that meets immediate warfighter, civilian and commercial needs."

"The SUGV Early will have a large, diverse customer base," said Vice Adm. Joe Dyer (U.S. Navy, Ret.), president of iRobot Government and Industrial Robots. "By teaming with Boeing, we can leverage their system-of-system capabilities and global marketing strength to quickly get these life-saving robots into the hands of our troops, first responders and allies worldwide."

Under the agreement, Boeing will provide expertise in systems integration, large volume production and global marketing, while iRobot will design, develop and manufacture the robots. Boeing and iRobot will jointly offer these commercial robots to all U.S. Department of Defense, civil and international markets.

iRobot is a provider of robots that perform dull, dirty or dangerous missions in a better way. The company’s proprietary technology, iRobot AWARE Robot Intelligence Systems, incorporates advanced concepts in navigation, mobility, manipulation and artificial intelligence. This proprietary system enables iRobot to build behavior-based robots, including its family of consumer and military robots. For additional information about iRobot, please visit www.irobot.com.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has delivered the first full-rate production Combat Survivor Evader Locator (CSEL) radios, 5,053 units, to the U.S. Department of Defense, bringing the total number of CSEL radios delivered to the warfighter to 11,436.

CSEL is the U.S. Department of Defense's program of record for Combat Search and Rescue communications. To date, the Joint Services have ordered 16,272 CSEL radios and support equipment, including a second $36 million full rate production order. Boeing's CSEL communications system has been authorized for use in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom since December 2005.

"Demand for CSEL remains high because it's an end-to-end system that provides secure, worldwide coverage on a continuous basis, which means a lot to the warfighter, said Michael Bates, Boeing CSEL program manager.

Designed for easy use, the multifunction CSEL system is a cost-effective technological breakthrough that gives U.S. forces a tactical advantage. Unique communication and message encryption techniques prevent signals from being intercepted or decoded. Using communications satellites and global positioning technology, CSEL radios will save lives by providing real-time encrypted information about the precise location of isolated personnel such as downed pilots.

In addition to precise geopositioning information, the hand-held survival radios provide recovery forces and over-the-horizon joint search and rescue centers with two-way secure data communications capability. CSEL enables rescue forces to authenticate and communicate with isolated personnel in near real-time, anywhere in the world.

The Boeing Company [NYSE:BA] honored 11 companies tonight with its premier supplier award, presented to the company's top suppliers for their commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction.

The 2006 Supplier of the Year winners were selected from a field of more than 27,000 Boeing suppliers in nearly 100 countries as part of a rigorous and thorough review process. Boeing saluted the winners at its annual awards ceremony in Bellevue, Wash.

"We are pleased to recognize the achievements of these 11 suppliers for reaching extraordinary levels of performance and quality, and becoming the best in the Boeing supply chain," said master of ceremonies Steve Schaffer, functional leader of Supplier Management for Boeing, and vice president and general manager of Global Partners, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Boeing's ongoing commitment to working together with our partners helps us meet the high standards for quality, productivity and efficiency that our customers deserve and our competitive business environment demands."

Awards were presented in the following categories: Avionics, Electronics/Hydraulics/Mechanical, Major Structures, Purchased Outside Production, Common Aerospace Commodities, Aerospace Support, Non-Production/Shared Services Group, Technology, Diversity/Small Woman Business Enterprise, Diversity/Small Minority Business Enterprise, Diversity/Boeing Protégé.

The winning suppliers were chosen based on statistical measurements of quality, on-time delivery, post-delivery support and cost over a 12-month period through September 2006. They also were evaluated on their ability to anticipate and respond to changing customer requirements.

Five of the 11 winning suppliers are small businesses, as defined by the U.S. government, and two are based outside the United States.

April 19

Boeing [NYSE:BA] and CIT Aerospace, a business unit of CIT Group Inc., a leading global provider of commercial and consumer finance solutions, today announced an order for five Boeing Next-Generation 737-700s, valued at approximately $295 million at list prices.

To date, CIT has taken delivery of 31 Next-Generation 737s and has a backlog of five 787 Dreamliners and 10 Next-Generation 737s on order with Boeing.

"The Boeing Next-Generation 737 family has proven to be reliable and continues to be popular among our clients," said C. Jeffrey Knittel, President of CIT Aerospace. "Adding these five additional airplanes to our fleet helps us meet demand and further enhances our product offering to customers."

"With this follow-on order, CIT Aerospace clearly recognizes the excellent performance of the Boeing Next-Generation 737 as an investment," said John Feren, vice president of Sales - Leasing & Asset Management, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Demand for the efficient and reliable 737 family remains very strong from lessors and operators around the world."

The Boeing 737-700 is one of the best-selling versions of the highly successful Next-Generation 737 family, the most technologically advanced airplane family in the single-aisle market. The Next-Generation 737's market success is confirmed by air finance investors, who consistently rank it as the most preferred airplane due to its wide market base, superior performance efficiency and lowest operating costs in its class. As of March 31, 104 customers have placed orders for 3,734 Next-Generation 737s. Unfilled orders for the model exceed 1,500 airplanes, worth over $100 billion at current list prices.

CIT Aerospace provides financing solutions to a broad spectrum of the global aerospace value chain ranging from operators of commercial and business aircraft to manufacturers and suppliers in the aerospace, defense and homeland security industries. CIT Aerospace manages a fleet of more than 300 commercial, regional and business aircraft leased and financed to over 100 airlines around the world.

Boeing Pico-Satellite Mission to Advance Miniature Satellite Technology

ST. LOUIS, April 19, 2007 -- A pico-satellite developed by Boeing [NYSE: BA] to evaluate miniature spacecraft technologies was successfully launched to orbit on April 17 by an ISC Kosmotras Dnepr rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.
-- A pico-satellite developed by Boeing [NYSE: BA] to evaluate miniature spacecraft technologies was successfully launched to orbit on April 17 by an ISC Kosmotras Dnepr rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.

Initial system checks indicate that the CubeSat TestBed 1 (CSTB1) spacecraft is operational and ready for a series of on-orbit demonstrations that will help Boeing further develop nano-satellites weighing less than 22 pounds.

"Our pico- and nano-satellite activities are part of a broader Boeing effort to enable a more operationally responsive space," said Alex Lopez, vice president of Boeing Advanced Network and Space Systems.

During the CSTB1 demonstrations, Boeing will test several new technologies, software designs and on-orbit operations for nano-satellite functions.

"Our team is excited that CSTB1 is in orbit, and we're ready to proceed with our demonstrations," said Scott MacGillivray, manager of Boeing Nano-Satellite Programs. "These satellites can quickly and inexpensively test miniature, low-power components and subsystems to help reduce the power requirements and weight of larger satellites."

Boeing developed the CSTB1 spacecraft at its new Engineering Development Center in Huntington Beach, Calif., where engineers are exploring new ways to reduce the size, weight and power needs for key satellite components. The new facility includes a Mission Operations Center where on-orbit operations for CSTB1 will be conducted.

"On-orbit tests of CubeSats like CSTB1 can be conducted years earlier than larger satellites and at considerably less cost than Earth-based testing. Nano-satellites also are less costly to develop and deploy than larger satellites and can piggy back on rockets launching larger payloads," added MacGillivray.

Weighing a little more than two pounds, CSTB1 consists of four microcontrollers as the brains, redundant communication systems with two independent radios, two high-capacity lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, a deployable antenna, a sophisticated control system that determines the attitude of the spacecraft using sun and magnetic field sensors, a simple attitude control system using magnetic torque coils and multi-functional boards containing sensors and electronics.

Future missions may test better control accuracy, additional electrical power, more communications bandwidth and higher computational performance.

The Boeing [NYSE: BA] KC-767A Tanker reached another significant test milestone April 12 when its aircrew successfully extended and retracted the left and right Wing Aerial Refueling Pod (WARP) hoses for the first time.

The flight marks the beginning of a series of in-flight tests --at various speeds and altitudes --that will demonstrate the hose's stability and result in using the WARP hoses to offload fuel to various aircraft.

"Extending both WARP hoses is a significant step forward not just for our air force, but for other nations that use hose and drogue refueling," said Lt. Col. Roberto Poni, Italian Air Force on-site liaison. "The Italian KC-767 will provide an unmatched multi-point air refueling capability for many years to come."

When using the WARPs, the tanker aircraft trails from either wing a hose with a drogue (basket) attached to the end. The receiver aircraft uses a probe to connect to the basket and take on valuable fuel, allowing its aircrew to complete their mission. When fully functional, each WARP can simultaneously refuel multiple aircraft and offload 400 gallons of fuel per minute.

"Now that we transferred fuel through our fifth-generation boom, extended and retracted our Hose Drum Unit and demonstrated our WARP capability, it's quite clear that we can deliver a proven, lowest-risk solution for the U.S. Air Force's next-generation tanker," said Ron Marcotte, vice president and general manager of Boeing Global Mobility Systems. "These highly advanced refueling systems, created by Smiths Aerospace, are flying today and will be key components on the KC-767 Advanced Tanker."

Boeing has produced nearly 2,000 tankers in its history and currently is building four KC-767 tankers each for Italy and Japan.

Commercial Aviation Services has signed Air Pacific for Boeing's Next-Generation 737 landing gear overhaul and exchange program. This is the first customer for the program and this agreement will cover the entire fleet of Air Pacific's Next-Generation 737 fleet.

By utilizing the Boeing Service Center Repair Network, customers will receive support anywhere around the world. Boeing will be allocating a number of shipsets (nose gear, lefthand and righthand main gear) to support future customers.

"We are excited to welcome Air Pacific to the Boeing exchange and overhaul program," said Mark Owen, vice president of Commercial Aviation Services Material Management. "We believe we can be a huge asset to their growing fleet and provide top-notch service on a 24x7 basis."

Boeing Commercial Aviation Services, a unit of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, is a customer-focused organization. It provides products, services and integrated solutions to improve fleet utilization, reduce costs, leverage leading-edge information management, and ensure passenger well-being. The Boeing Company is the world's leading aerospace company providing products and services to customers in 145 countries.

Air Pacific had as been in operation since 1951 and now serves 19 cities in 11 countries with an all-Boeing fleet. Fiji based Air Pacific in 1998 was the first scheduled operator for the Next-Generation 737 in the Southern Hemisphere. The carrier provides service to the South Pacific region; Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane in Australia; Auckland and Christchurch in New Zealand; Honolulu and Los Angeles in the United States; Vancouver, Canada; and Tokyo, Japan.

Boeing's [NYSE:BA] Commercial Aviation Services organization has signed Spirit AeroSystems [NYSE: SPR] to provide component repair and overhaul services on Boeing airplane components.

Wichita, Kan.-based Spirit will repair and overhaul engine nacelles for Boeing 777 and Next-Generation 737 airplanes as part of the Boeing Component Repair and Leasing Services Network Service Center (NSC) program, which offers component repair support for Boeing customers at sites in North America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

"We welcome Spirit AeroSystems to our growing component repair and overhaul services program," said Mark Owen, vice president of Commercial Aviation Services Material Management. "Spirit AeroSystems provides a wealth of experience and an inventory of thousands of spare parts and components that will support our customers' airplane component needs around the world."

The Boeing repair network service center program is part of a continuing strategy to reduce maintenance costs and provide faster repair and overhaul solutions of key rotable components for Boeing customers around the world.

The Boeing Company is the world's leading aerospace company, providing products and services to customers in 145 countries. Boeing Commercial Aviation Services, a unit of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, provides products, services and integrated solutions to improve fleet utilization, reduce costs, leverage leading-edge information management and ensure passenger well-being.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Southwest Airlines said the pioneering low-cost carrier will use Maintenance Performance Toolbox to streamline maintenance on its entire fleet of Classic 737s and Next-Generation 737s. Toolbox, which is rapidly becoming a must-have software package for efficiency-conscious carriers, represents the industry's first set of productivity tools designed to unify an airline's maintenance and engineering operations from start to finish.

Southwest will use Toolbox for the airline's entire fleet of 219 Classic 737s and 264 Next-Generation 737s.

"Southwest is one of the world's premier airlines, and an order of this magnitude encourages the entire industry to sit up and take notice," said Dan da Silva, vice president of Sales and Marketing for Boeing Commercial Aviation Services. "The most important benefit, however, is the fact that an airline as successful as Southwest has decided Maintenance Performance Toolbox will help drive its efficiency to a new level."

The airline will use three modules of Toolbox: Library, Authoring and Tasks. Library will help ensure that the airline has immediate access to timely, updated source maintenance data. Authoring allows Southwest to efficiently customize its maintenance information based on its own systems. And Tasks offers a way to develop, approve and manage task cards.

In all, Toolbox today comprises six different tools in one easy-to-use suite of software products that airlines can employ to tailor an efficient solution to their specific needs. Toolbox is a key element in Boeing's efforts to help airlines gather and use precise, practical and timely information through the use of multiple digital solutions. The products, which include Airplane Health Management and the Class 3 Electronic Flight Bag, are designed to integrate seamlessly to offer an effective response to airlines' maintenance needs.

Available via an Internet browser as a secured, hosted service, Toolbox provides reliable access to all of its tools through MyBoeingFleet.com, Boeing's Internet portal.

Boeing announced its first customer for Toolbox late in 2005. Today, less than 18 months later, the program has 30 customers, including four announced so far in 2007.

Boeing-Led Team Developing Surface Navigation Concept for DARPA

ST. LOUIS, April 18, 2007 -- How would U.S. ground troops navigate precisely and effectively if signals from the Global Positioning System (GPS) were not available? Boeing [NYSE: BA] and an industry team are getting the chance to tackle that problem under a concept development contract awarded recently by the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA).
-- How would U.S. ground troops navigate precisely and effectively if signals from the Global Positioning System (GPS) were not available? Boeing [NYSE: BA] and an industry team are getting the chance to tackle that problem under a concept development contract awarded recently by the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA).

The objective of the Robust Surface Navigation (RSN) program is to develop technologies that can exploit various "signals of opportunity" -- electronic waves emanating from satellites, cell phone towers and even television transmission towers -- to provide precise location and navigation information to ground troops when GPS signals are being electronically jammed or blocked by natural or man-made obstacles, such as foliage or buildings.

"The challenge is to develop an integrated system that can use all available signals -- not just GPS -- to provide accurate navigation information through one small receiver, thereby eliminating the need for an expensive, fixed infrastructure," said Bart Ferrell, Boeing Phantom Works program manager for Precision Navigation Programs.

The Boeing-led Robust Surface Navigation team is beginning its 15-month Phase 1 concept development contract.

The team includes ROSUM of Mountain View, Calif.; NAVSYS of Colorado Springs, Colo.; and Shared Spectrum, of Vienna, Va. "Leveraging the technical expertise and capabilities of this exceptionally strong team will help ensure the development of a very robust integrated system for surface navigation," Ferrell said.

ROSUM is the only company that has used broadcast television signals to locate mobile assets. It's also the first company to combine television and GPS signals for truly robust situational awareness in all environments. ROSUM's leadership comes from GPS, cellular and television industries.

NAVSYS provides high-quality technical products and services in GPS hardware design, systems engineering, systems analysis, and software design. Founded in 1986 by Dr. Allison Brown, NAVSYS is dedicated to promoting the use of GPS in a wide variety of commercial and military applications. It offers services in three primary areas: GPS, Inertial Navigation Systems, and Communications Systems.

Shared Spectrum has developed innovative cognitive radio technologies for government and commercial customers with challenging radio communications and networking needs. The company's expertise includes defense communications in extremely challenging RF conditions and commercial communications involving novel approaches to sharing and managing spectrum access.

Boeing-Led Team Developing Surface Navigation Concept for DARPA

The Boeing-led Robust Surface Navigation team is beginning its 15-month Phase 1 concept development contract.

Boeing Orbital Express Conducts First Autonomous Spacecraft-to-Spacecraft Fluid and Component Transfer

ST. LOUIS, April 17, 2007 -- In its first on-orbit demonstration 300 miles above the Earth, Boeing's [NYSE: BA] Orbital Express system autonomously transferred propellant fuel and a battery from one spacecraft to another, marking industry firsts for the revolutionary system.
-- In its first on-orbit demonstration 300 miles above the Earth, Boeing's [NYSE: BA] Orbital Express system autonomously transferred propellant fuel and a battery from one spacecraft to another, marking industry firsts for the revolutionary system.

During the fuel transfer demonstration, the Boeing Autonomous Space Transport Robotic Operations (ASTRO) servicing spacecraft successfully transferred hydrazine propellant with Ball Aerospace's NextSat, a prototypical modular next-generation serviceable client spacecraft.

The ASTRO vehicle also used a robotic arm to transfer a battery to NextSat. It marked the first time that a spacecraft autonomously transferred hardware to another spacecraft using a robotic arm.

The landmark tests are the first in a series of planned demonstrations during a three-month mission to validate the system's functionality.

"The Orbital Express team is accomplishing things that have never been done before in space," said George Muellner, president of Boeing Advanced Systems. "These achievements are the first steps toward developing a system that will extend the life and operation of various types of spacecraft."

Orbital Express, launched to orbit on a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket on March 8, is a Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency-led effort consisting of the Boeing ASTRO servicing spacecraft and the NextSat serviceable client spacecraft.

"Boeing believes autonomous on-orbit servicing and rendezvous proximity operations can be a vital element to enable a more operationally responsive space," said Alex Lopez, vice president of Boeing Advanced Network and Space Systems.

Through pre-demonstration system checks, the team verified the spacecraft's ability to stay connected and hold a firm seal during transfer operations.

ASTRO's fluid transfer system supports typical client spacecraft configurations using either a pressure-fed (ullage recompression) or transfer pump system.

In the ullage recompression demonstration, ASTRO transferred approximately 31.97 lbm (pounds mass) of hydrazine to NextSat, satisfying the objective of 32 lbm. In the transfer pump demonstration, ASTRO transferred 2.2 lbm more than the 17 lbm target. The team then conducted a pump fluid transfer from NextSat back to ASTRO.

The team also performed an autonomous transfer of hardware between the two spacecraft. Using its robotic manipulator arm, ASTRO placed a battery on NextSat. The battery was successfully integrated into NextSat's power system following the transfer.

The demonstrations occurred at the lowest levels of spacecraft autonomy, which required several ground-based "approval to proceed" (ATP) confirmations. The team initiated ATPs to closely monitor and evaluate the operations. Future demonstrations will require fewer ATPs, allowing Orbital Express to conduct flight activities with increased autonomy. At the highest autonomy levels, no ATPs are required.

Orbital Express team members include NASA, Ball Aerospace, Northrop Grumman Space Technology, MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd., the Charles Stark Draper Laboratory Inc., and Starsys Research.

April 12

Boeing Begins Mission System Flight Testing of Upgraded AWACS Aircraft

ST. LOUIS, April 12, 2007 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has conducted a successful first mission system test flight of an Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft upgraded under the Block 40/45 program, the largest enhancement in the history of the U.S. Air Force E-3 AWACS fleet.

During the seven-hour flight on April 5 from Boeing Field in Seattle, the crew -- composed of Boeing, U.S. Air Force and subcontractor personnel -- conducted functional tests of the aircraft's enhanced navigation, communications, radar and mission computing subsystems.

"The flight was a significant milestone because it confirms that development of the mission system suite is on track to support our flight testing plans," said Stu Oliason, Boeing U.S. AWACS Integration and Checkout manager.

In future flights, Boeing will further calibrate the upgrades and measure their performance. The mission system flight test program is scheduled for 62 flights over the next several months.

Under the Block 40/45 program, Boeing outfitted the Test System 3 (TS-3) AWACS aircraft with new mission computing hardware and software, upgraded radar equipment, and navigation and communications systems.

These enhancements are designed to increase the aircraft's capability through improved automation, human computer interface and reliability as well as lowered lifecycle costs. These upgrades make AWACS a prime catalyst for network-enabled battle management and command-and-control capability and an extraordinary force multiplier across the entire operational theater.

Based on a Boeing 707-320B airframe, the E-3 AWACS provides wide-area surveillance, command-and-control and communications functions for all airborne assets in any theater of operation. In service with the U.S. Air Force since 1977, it is also used by NATO, United Kingdom, France and Saudi Arabia. Japan's E-767 AWACS utilizes the same basic mission computing system as the current U.S. Air Force E-3 AWACS.

April 9

Boeing Awarded Contract for 18 U.S. Army AH-64D Apache Longbow Helicopters

-- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and the U.S. Army have signed a $276.4 million contact for 18 new AH-64D Apache Longbow multi-role combat helicopters.

The contract raises to 45 the number of new-build Apache Longbows on order with the U.S. Army. The U.S. Army also recently contracted for the remanufacture of 96 AH-64A Apaches into AH-64Ds. Boeing will begin delivery of these new-build helicopters in mid-2009 at its manufacturing facility in Mesa, Ariz., where Apaches have been built since the program's inception.

"The combat-proven Apache Longbow continues to support our warfighters and the battlefield commander's requirements across the full spectrum of operations," said David Almond, Boeing Block II Apache program manager. "We remain committed to producing the most superior attack helicopter in the world -- a helicopter that our soldiers can count on each and every time."

The U.S. Army uses the Apache Longbow to fulfill attack helicopter and reconnaissance requirements. Featuring fully integrated avionics and weapons, plus state-of-the-art digital communications capabilities, the Apache Longbow can rapidly detect, classify, prioritize and engage stationary and moving opposition targets at standoff ranges in nearly all weather environments.

The new U.S. Army Apache Longbow aircraft, to be built in the Block II configuration, are in addition to the 501 remanufactured AH-64D Apache Longbows built between 1997 and 2006 under two five-year, multi-year contracts

April 2

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] announced today at Can Tho University that the aerospace company is providing 13 four-year full-tuition scholarships to students at the university in the departments of Information Technology and Computer Science.

The scholarships are part of Boeing's continuing initiative to support educational improvements in Vietnam, particularly in the areas of information technology and computer sciences. The awards are in recognition of the recent 40th anniversary of the November 2006 founding of Can Tho University.

The value of the scholarships is not being made available.

The scholarships will address the need for young people to acquire skills that can attract high-technology business as well as promote economic growth and improvement in opportunities and quality of life in the economically disadvantaged Mekong Delta area of Vietnam.

The scholarships are being provided to one student from each of the 13 provinces of the Mekong Delta, and Can Tho University will select the recipients based on academic achievement and financial need. The students will receive their annual scholarship awards at the beginning of each of the four academic years, with first awards in the third quarter of 2007.

Developing skills and capabilities in the burgeoning information technology industry will provide great opportunities to the students and, in turn, their careers in IT will help create economic growth and prosperity in the Delta region, consistent with Boeing's overarching philosophy to promote education in Vietnam.

Can Tho University, the only state university in the region, is located in the heart of the Mekong Delta. CTU has become an important center for research and technology and is well known for outreach programs serving communities throughout the delta. CTU has developed a broad network of international cooperation, establishing links with many major international organizations, including training and research institutes worldwide. The university has more than 18,000 students with an additional 14,500 studying at satellite training centers in the area provinces.

Boeing is very involved with the educational system in Vietnam, conducting Information Technology and accreditation seminars in multiple locations over the past year, and has been a significant contributor to primary-school building and improvement projects in smaller villages in the country.

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