Exploring the skies with unparalleled elegance and efficiency, the Boeing 777 vs 787 families stand as pillars of modern aviation. Each with its own strengths, these aircraft cater to the diverse demands of airlines worldwide. From the majestic range and capacity of the 777 series to the groundbreaking efficiency and flexibility of the 787 Dreamliner, join us as we delve into the fascinating comparison between these two aviation titans. Discover which jet sets the standard for your sky-high expectations in our detailed exploration of Boeing 777 vs. 787.
Boeing 777 vs 787 Comparison
The Boeing 777 vs 787 are titans of the sky, each designed with distinct missions in mind. The 777, known for its impressive size, offers greater capacity and power, accommodating up to 396 passengers and boasting a range of up to 8,555 nm in its 777-200LR variant. In contrast, the 787 Dreamliner shines in efficiency and technology, capable of carrying 242 to 330 passengers with a focus on reducing fuel consumption. It stretches its wings further in terms of range, with the 787-9 variant flying up to 7,565 nm. Both aircraft utilize twin-engine designs, yet they cater to different aspects of air travel; the 777 excels in carrying more passengers over long distances, while the 787 offers cost-effective operations and comfort for medium to long-haul flights.Check out our comparison of the Boeing 767-400ER vs Boeing 737-900 to see how they differ.
To compare the Boeing 777X with the Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner, we’ll focus on the key differences in terms of design, capabilities, efficiency, and technology. The Boeing 777X is the latest iteration of Boeing’s 777 family, featuring advanced technologies and improved efficiencies. The Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner is the largest variant of the 787 family, known for its fuel efficiency and passenger comfort.
Boeing 777
The Boeing 777, often referred to as the “Triple Seven,” is a long-range, wide-body twin-engine jet airliner developed by Boeing Commercial Airplanes. Since its first flight in 1994, the 777 has become a favorite for airlines thanks to its impressive blend of range, efficiency, and passenger comfort. It can carry between 314 to 396 passengers, depending on the variant, and boasts ranges from 5,235 to over 8,555 nautical miles.
This makes it perfect for connecting cities across the globe without stopping. With a wingspan of up to 71.8 meters on the latest models and powered by the world’s most powerful jet engines, the GE90s, the 777 is truly a marvel of modern aviation. Its success has led to several variants, each designed to meet different airline needs, solidifying its role as a backbone for international travel.
Boeing 787
The Boeing 787, famously known as the Dreamliner, is a marvel of modern aviation that redefines what it means to fly. Introduced to the skies in 2011, this aircraft stands out for its exceptional fuel efficiency, thanks to its innovative design and the use of composite materials, making it 20% more fuel-efficient than the models it was designed to replace. The 787 family comes in three variants: the 787-8, 787-9, and the larger 787-10, each designed to carry between 242 to 330 passengers across varying distances, from 7,305 nautical miles (13,530 km) up to 7,565 nautical miles (14,010 km) for the 787-9 variant. Not just efficient, the Dreamliner also offers enhanced passenger comfort with larger windows, higher humidity, and a lower cabin altitude to reduce jet lag. It’s not just an aircraft; it’s Boeing’s commitment to a more connected and comfortable world.
Boeing 777 vs Boeing 787 Variants
The Boeing 777 and 787 families each mark significant milestones in commercial aviation, catering to a wide range of airline operational needs with their diverse variants. The 777 family, known for its long-range capabilities and high capacity, has been a staple in long-haul international travel since its first variant entered service in 1995. The introduction of the 777-8 and 777-9 promises to push these boundaries further, with the 777-9 set to become the world’s longest airliner upon its expected entry into service in 2025. These aircraft will feature cutting-edge technologies like the new GE9X engines and composite wings with folding wingtips.
On the other hand, the 787 Dreamliner family, which began service in 2011, revolutionized the industry with its use of composite materials for the majority of its structure, resulting in significant fuel savings. Targeting efficiency and flexibility, the 787 variants are designed to serve everything from medium to long-haul routes with fewer passengers but in a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly manner compared to their predecessors. The stretched versions, 787-9 and 787-10, offer airlines the ability to carry more passengers over longer distances without sacrificing the efficiency that defines the 787 family.
| Aircraft Model | Type | First In Service | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 777-200 | Passenger | 1995 | Initial model of the 777 family |
| 777-200ER | Passenger | 1997 | Extended range version of the 777-200 |
| 777-200LR | Passenger | 2006 | World’s longest-range commercial airliner at its debut |
| 777-300 | Passenger | 1998 | Stretched version for higher capacity |
| 777-300ER | Passenger | 2004 | Extended range and improved efficiency over the 777-300 |
| 777F | Freighter | 2009 | Cargo version with features from the 777-200LR |
| 777-8 | Passenger | – (2027 est.) | New generation with folding wingtips, delayed introduction |
| 777-8F | Freighter | 2027 est. | Freighter version of the 777-8, projected launch |
| 777-9 | Passenger | 2025 est. | World’s longest airliner, higher capacity than the 777-8 |
| 787-8 | Passenger | 2011 | First of the 787 family, introduced composite materials |
| 787-9 | Passenger | 2014 | Stretched version of the 787-8 with more capacity and range |
| 787-10 | Passenger | 2018 | Further stretched version for maximum capacity |
Boeing 777 vs 787 Range Comparison
In the comparison of range capabilities between the Boeing 777 and 787 families, it’s clear that both aircraft families offer impressive distances tailored to different operational needs. The Boeing 777-200LR and the 777-8 stand out within the 777 family, with the 777-8 offering the longest range of up to 16,170 km (8,730 nm), showcasing Boeing’s commitment to ultra-long-haul travel. This makes the 777-8 exceptionally suited for the longest non-stop commercial flights in the world.
On the other hand, the Boeing 787 family, particularly the 787-9, presents a remarkable blend of efficiency and range, capable of flying up to 14,010 km (7,565 nm). While the 787 family does not reach the absolute maximum range of the 777-8, the 787-9’s range is highly competitive, especially when considering its efficiency and the lower operational costs associated with its newer technology and lighter composite structure.
| Aircraft Model | Range |
|---|---|
| Boeing 777-200 | 9,700 km (5,240 nm) |
| Boeing 777-200ER | 13,080 km (7,065 nm) |
| Boeing 777-200LR | 15,843 km (8,555 nm) |
| Boeing 777-300 | 11,165 km (6,030 nm) |
| Boeing 777-300ER | 13,649 km (7,370 nm) |
| Boeing 777-300ERSF | 8,610 km (4,650 nm) |
| Boeing 777F | 9,200 km (4,970 nm) |
| Boeing 777-8 | 16,170 km (8,730 nm) |
| Boeing 777-8F | 8,170 km (4,410 nm) |
| Boeing 777-9 | 13,500 km (7,285 nm) |
| Boeing 787-8 | 13,530 km (7,305 nm) |
| Boeing 787-9 | 14,010 km (7,565 nm) |
| Boeing 787-10 | 11,730 km (6,330 nm) |
Boeing 777X vs Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner
The Boeing 777X vs Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner each cater to different segments of the long-haul market. The 777X, particularly the 777-9 variant, is designed for airlines needing higher capacity on their busiest long-haul routes, offering advanced technologies such as folding wingtips to enhance efficiency and airport compatibility. Its GE9X engines provide unparalleled power and efficiency for an aircraft of its size.
| Feature | Boeing 777X | Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner |
|---|---|---|
| First Flight | January 25, 2020 | March 31, 2017 |
| Entry into Service | Expected in 2023 (subject to change) | 2018 |
| Main Use | Long-haul routes with high passenger demand | Long-haul routes with medium to high passenger demand |
| Fuselage | Aluminum and composite materials, larger windows | Composite materials, larger electronically dimmable windows |
| Wingspan | 235 ft 5 in (71.8 m) with folding wingtips | 197 ft 3 in (60.1 m) |
| Length | 251 ft 9 in (76.7 m) for 777-9 variant | 224 ft (68.3 m) |
| Passenger Capacity (Typical 2-class) | 777-9: 426 passengers | 330 passengers |
| Range | 777-9: 7,285 nautical miles (13,500 km) | 6,345 nautical miles (11,750 km) |
| Engines | GE9X, the most powerful jet engine in the world | GEnx-1B or Trent 1000 |
| Efficiency | Enhanced fuel efficiency due to new engine technology and aerodynamics | Exceptional fuel efficiency through advanced aerodynamics and composite construction |
| Cabin Features | New interior designs, larger windows, higher cabin pressure, and humidity | High cabin pressure, higher humidity, large windows, and advanced LED lighting |
| Notable Technologies | Folding wingtips for airport compatibility, advanced flight deck | Advanced electrical system, composite wings, and fuselage |
| Price (List Price) | 777-9: Around $442.2 million | Approximately $338.4 million |
The 787-10, meanwhile, is ideal for medium to high-demand routes, offering unmatched fuel efficiency and passenger comfort in its class. Its smaller size compared to the 777X allows for operational flexibility across a wider range of airports.
Boeing 777-9 vs Boeing 787-9
| Feature | Boeing 777-9 | Boeing 787-9 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 76.72 m (251 ft 8 in) | 63.00 m (206 ft 8 in) |
| Wingspan | 72.80 m (238 ft 10 in) | 60.17 m (197 ft 5 in) |
| Wing Area | 516.70 m² (5,562 ft²) | 347.00 m² (3,735 ft²) |
| Height | 19.53 m (64 ft 1 in) | 16.90 m (55 ft 5 in) |
| Engines | 2 | 2 |
| Thrust per Engine | 467 kN (105,000 lbf) | 316 kN (71,000 lbf) |
| Total Thrust | 934 kN (210,000 lbf) | 632 kN (142,000 lbf) |
| Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW) | 351,534 kg (775,000 lbs) | 252,651 kg (557,000 lbs) |
| Range | 13,500 km (7,290 nm) | 15,394 km (8,313 nm) |
| Cruise Speed | Mach 0.84 | Mach 0.85 |
| Passenger Capacity (Typical Configuration) | 426 passengers | 280 passengers |
Boeing 777-9 vs Boeing 787-9 Key Differences
- Size and Capacity: The Boeing 777-9 is significantly longer, has a wider wingspan, and can carry more passengers compared to the Boeing 787-9, making it suitable for higher-density routes.
- Efficiency and Range: Despite the larger size, the 787-9 offers a longer range, catering well to long-haul routes with its efficient design and engines.
- Performance: The 777-9’s engines are more powerful, providing greater thrust, which is necessary for the larger aircraft’s heavier takeoff weight.
- Design Innovations: The 777-9 features folding wingtips, a design innovation to accommodate its larger wingspan within current airport infrastructure constraints.
- Market Positioning: The 777-9 is positioned as a large, long-haul aircraft for major international routes with high passenger volumes. In contrast, the 787-9, with its efficiency and range, is aimed at opening new, non-stop long-haul routes with medium passenger demand.
Boeing 777-8 vs Boeing 787-8
The Boeing 777-8 is tailored for airlines seeking maximum capacity and range, ideal for flagship international routes. In contrast, the Boeing 787-8 offers an unparalleled blend of efficiency and flexibility, perfect for carriers looking to optimize operational costs on long-haul routes. These differences allow airlines to select the aircraft that best fits their strategic needs and route structures.
| Features | Boeing 777-8 | Boeing 787-8 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 69.79 m (229 ft) | 56.69 m (186 ft) |
| Wingspan | 72.80 m (238 ft 10 in) | 60.17 m (197 ft 5 in) |
| Wing Area | 516.70 m² (5,562 ft²) | 347.00 m² (3,735 ft²) |
| Height | 19.49 m (63 ft 11 in) | 17.00 m (55 ft 9 in) |
| Engines | 2 | 2 |
| Thrust per Engine | 467 kN (105,000 lbf) | 285 kN (64,000 lbf) |
| Total Thrust | 934 kN (210,000 lbf) | 570 kN (128,000 lbf) |
| Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW) | 351,534 kg (775,000 lbs) | 227,930 kg (502,000 lbs) |
| Range | 16,170 km (8,732 nm) | 14,530 km (7,846 nm) |
| Cruise Speed | Mach 0.84 | Mach 0.85 |
| Passenger Capacity | 384 passengers | 242 passengers |
Boeing 777-8 vs Boeing 787-8 Key Differences
The Boeing 777-8 and Boeing 787-8 are two advanced aircraft designed to meet the diverse needs of the aviation industry, yet they differ significantly in several key aspects:
- Size and Capacity:
- The Boeing 777-8 is larger, with a length of 69.79 m and can typically seat up to 384 passengers.
- The Boeing 787-8 is smaller, measuring 56.69 m in length, with a standard seating capacity for 242 passengers.
- Range:
- The 777-8 offers a longer range of approximately 16,170 km, suitable for ultra-long-haul routes.
- The 787-8 has a slightly shorter range of around 14,530 km, optimized for long-haul flights.
- Wingspan and Wing Technology:
- The 777-8 has a wider wingspan of 72.80 m and features new composite wings with folding wingtips to fit into the same airport slots as current-generation aircraft.
- The 787-8 has a wingspan of 60.17 m with raked wingtips, emphasizing efficiency and aerodynamics.
- Engines and Thrust:
- The 777-8 is powered by GE9X engines, each providing up to 467 kN (105,000 lbf) of thrust, totaling 934 kN.
- The 787-8 uses GEnx-1B or Trent 1000 engines, with each engine offering 285 kN (64,000 lbf) of thrust, for a total of 570 kN.
- Weight and Material:
- The 777-8 has a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of 351,534 kg and incorporates both aluminum and composite materials in its construction.
- The 787-8, significantly lighter, has an MTOW of 227,930 kg and is primarily built from composite materials, contributing to its fuel efficiency.
- Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact:
- The 777-8, while highly efficient for its size and capacity, is geared towards maximizing payload and range.
- The 787-8 stands out for its exceptional fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impact, thanks to its advanced aerodynamics and materials.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the comparison between the Boeing 777 and the Boeing 787 Dreamliner highlights the impressive advancements and strategic diversity within Boeing’s wide-body offerings. Each aircraft serves its purpose in the modern aviation landscape with distinct advantages. The 777, with its vast range and larger capacity, is tailored for airlines aiming to cover ultra-long distances with a significant number of passengers, making it a favorite for major international routes. Meanwhile, the 787 Dreamliner focuses on operational efficiency, environmental sustainability, and passenger comfort, offering airlines the ability to open new routes with its remarkable fuel efficiency and lower operating costs.
FaQs
What are the main differences between the Boeing 777 and 787?
The main differences lie in their design objectives: the 777 is focused on higher capacity and longer range, suitable for major airline hubs, while the 787 Dreamliner prioritizes fuel efficiency, operational cost savings, and passenger comfort, making it ideal for opening new point-to-point routes.
Which variant has the longest range, the Boeing 777 or 787?
The Boeing 777-8 has one of the longest ranges among both families, capable of flying up to 16,170 km (8,730 nm), catering to ultra-long-haul routes.
How does the leg room compare between the Boeing 777 and 787?
The leg room in the Boeing 777 and 787 varies depending on the airline and seating configuration. However, the 787 typically has more leg room than the 777 due to its more modern design.
What are the size differences between the Boeing 777 and 787?
The Boeing 777 is a larger aircraft than the 787. The 777 has a greater wingspan, length, and height, and can carry more passengers and cargo than the 787.
Are there any notable differences between the American Airlines Boeing 777 and 787?
American Airlines operates both the Boeing 777 and 787, but there are some notable differences between the two aircraft. The 787 is more fuel-efficient and has a more modern design, while the 777 has a longer range and can carry more passengers.
Can the Boeing 777 and 787 be used interchangeably by airlines?
While both aircraft serve the long-haul market, they cater to different operational needs. Airlines may not use them interchangeably but rather strategically, depending on route demand, distance, and desired efficiency.
