Boeing has taken a significant step toward the development of its long-awaited 797 mid-sized airliner. After years of speculation, the company has announced plans to build the 797 in Washington as part of a massive new tentative agreement affecting over 33,000 employees. This announcement, made in a recent news release, marks the first concrete move towards realizing the New Midsize Airplane (NMA), which has been a focal point of discussion in the aviation world for nearly a decade.

Boeing 797 to Be Built in Washington

In the statement released on September 8, Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Stephanie Pope emphasized the importance of this contract in strengthening the company’s ties to Washington, where Boeing has long been rooted. She remarked, “This contract deepens our commitment to the Pacific Northwest. Boeing’s roots are here in Washington. It is where generations of workers have built incredible airplanes that connect the world.”

In a video message to employees, Pope elaborated on the future of the Puget Sound region, confirming that Boeing’s next new airplane would be constructed there. She highlighted the positive impact this development would have on job security for generations of workers, underscoring Boeing’s dedication to the community. Pope expressed her excitement, stating, “It’s a big commitment to you and to our community.”

Development of the Boeing 797

While Boeing has not provided an exact timeline for production, this announcement reinforces the company’s intent to develop the Boeing 797, also known as the New Midsize Airplane (NMA). The 797 is envisioned as a replacement for the aging Boeing 757 and aims to fill the gap in the “middle of the market” segment, which became evident after the 757 was discontinued.

Boeing’s interest in this market segment dates back to 2015 when the company began seriously assessing demand for a new mid-sized airliner. By 2017, numerous airlines had shown interest, with estimates suggesting a market potential of between 2,000 and 4,000 airframes. The aircraft is expected to come in two variants: one seating 225 passengers with a 5,000 nautical mile range, and the other seating 275 passengers with a 4,450 nautical mile range.

The Boeing 797’s Potential

The introduction of the Boeing 797 could provide a major leap forward in terms of cost efficiency. Early projections suggest that the aircraft could offer up to 40% lower trip costs compared to the 757. However, the program has faced several setbacks, including a significant pause in January 2020 following the two fatal crashes involving the 737 MAX. Since then, the development of the 797 has been subject to further delays, particularly as Boeing grapples with engine development timelines.

Despite these hurdles, Boeing has continued to explore design possibilities for the 797. Initially envisioned as a twin-aisle airliner, there has been speculation about modifying the design into a short-haul, narrow-body aircraft that would be only slightly larger than the Boeing 737. This shift in thinking was prompted, in part, by criticisms from former Airbus Americas President Barry Eccleston.

Uncertainty and Future Prospects

As of 2024, the status of the Boeing 797 remains unclear, with industry analysts pointing to the need for new engine technologies to mature before the aircraft can enter production. Boeing has reportedly estimated that the total development costs could reach $25 billion. Reports from 2022 indicated that delays would continue, but the recent contract agreement and commitment to build the 797 in Washington have provided renewed hope for its eventual rollout.

In conclusion, Boeing’s announcement regarding the 797 marks a pivotal moment for both the company and the broader aviation industry. While challenges remain, particularly regarding engine development and design decisions, the company’s commitment to building the 797 in Washington signals a promising future for this long-awaited aircraft.

So, what do you think about Boeing’s future aircraft? Let us know in the comments below.