What is the difference between Dreamliner and 777?

Boeing 787 Dreamliner vs. Boeing 777: A Comparative Analysis

Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner and 777 are both wide-body, commercial jetliners that have revolutionized the aviation industry. While they share certain similarities, these aircraft differ in their design, performance, and passenger capacity.

Size and Range

The 787 Dreamliner is a mid-sized aircraft, available in three variants: the 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10. The 787-9 is the most popular variant, with a fuselage length of 62.8 meters and a wingspan of 60.1 meters. It has a range of up to 14,150 kilometers, making it suitable for long-haul flights.

The 777, on the other hand, is a larger aircraft, available in several variants, including the 777-200, 777-300, and 777-8. The 777-300 is the largest variant, with a fuselage length of 73.9 meters and a wingspan of 64.8 meters. It has a range of up to 13,430 kilometers, making it ideal for ultra-long-haul flights.

Passenger Capacity

Despite the 787s extended -10 variant, the 777 surpasses it in passenger capacity. In a dual-class setup, the 777-300 accommodates 392 passengers, while the 787-10 can only hold 336. This difference is primarily due to the larger fuselage and wider cabin of the 777.

Design and Efficiency

The 787 Dreamliner is known for its composite construction and advanced design features. The aircraft’s fuselage is made primarily of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP), which is lighter and more durable than traditional aluminum alloys. This lightweight construction enables the 787 to achieve greater fuel efficiency.

The 777, while not as lightweight as the 787, still incorporates advanced design principles. Its swept wings and high-bypass turbofan engines provide increased aerodynamic efficiency and reduce noise levels.

Performance

Both the 787 Dreamliner and the 777 offer excellent performance in their respective market segments. The 787-9 is powered by two General Electric GEnx-1B engines, which provide a thrust of 76,000 pounds each. This gives the aircraft a maximum cruising speed of Mach 0.89 and a climb rate of 4,000 feet per minute.

The 777-300 is powered by two General Electric GE90-115B engines, which provide a thrust of 115,300 pounds each. This increased power gives the 777 a maximum cruising speed of Mach 0.84 and a climb rate of 2,500 feet per minute.

Cost and Market Share

The 787 Dreamliner has a lower purchase price than the 777, with the 787-10 listed at around $306 million, compared to $349 million for the 777-300. However, the 777 has a larger market share, with over 1,600 aircraft delivered as of 2022, compared to around 1,000 787s delivered.

Conclusion

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner and 777 are both exceptional wide-body aircraft that serve different market segments. While the 787 is more efficient and suitable for mid-range to long-haul flights, the 777 offers greater passenger capacity and extended range for ultra-long-haul operations. Ultimately, the choice between these aircraft depends on the specific requirements and considerations of individual airlines.