The first Boeing Next-Generation 737 with the certified performance improvement engines was delivered on a 737-800 to China Southern Airlines at Boeing Field in Seattle last week. The new CFM56-7BE engine configuration, which is now standard on all delivered 737s, is an improved design that includes high and low pressure turbine modification. Coupled with drag reduction improvements that Boeing started phasing into 737 productions earlier this year, it will result in lower fuel consumption and maintenance cost savings.
The new engine is part of the 737 performance improvement package that Boeing began testing in November 2010 with the goal of reducing fuel consumption by 2 percent. Other fuel performance incorporations will take place into 2012 and data analysis will continue to quantify the final benefit to customers.
