SINGAPORE - The GE90-115B continues initial ground testing and is scheduled to begin flight tests aboard GE's 747 flying testbed at Mojave, California, in the second quarter of this year. 



The engine is currently completing 150 hours of initial ground testing to measure thrust, performance, crosswind capability, and fan blade stress levels. During ground testing, the GE90-115B set a record for thrust, reaching a sustained 122,965 pounds (547 kN) at GE Aircraft Engines' outdoor test facility near Peebles, Ohio. 



"We are very happy with the results we have seen to date," said Chaker Chahrour, general manager of the GE90 Project Department. "The ground tests have validated our design and proved GE's experience and expertise in engine development are second to none."



In preparation for flight testing the GE90-115B, GEAE has modified its 747 flying testbed to incorporate structural changes to handle the engine's higher thrust. In addition, GE is fabricating a new flight inlet and fan cowling to accommodate the larger fan diameter and is modifying the original GE90 test thrust reverser. 



The flight test program will include up to 30 flights totaling 150 hours, evaluating altitude performance, air start surveys and operability transients. In addition, the tests will measure performance of the full authority digital electronic control (FADEC), acceleration time, and performance during maneuvers. 



The GE90-115B is scheduled for FAR33 type certification rated at 115,000 pounds (511 kN) thrust by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration and the European Community's Joint Airworthiness Authorities in 2002. Certification, first delivery, and entry into service of the 777-300ER are set for 2003. Air France, Japan Airlines, All Nippon, EVA, International Lease Finance Corporation, and GE Capital Aviation Services have ordered a total of 49 firm 777 longer-range aircraft. 



Snecma Moteurs, IHI and FiatAvio are participants on the GE90-115B engine program. The GE90-115B is the exclusive powerplant for Boeing's longer-range 777-300ER and -200LR twinjets. 



GE Aircraft Engines, a division of General Electric Company (NYSE: GE), is the world's leading manufacturer of jet engines for civil and military aircraft, including engines produced by CFM International, a 50/50 joint company of Snecma Moteurs of France and GE. In addition, GEAE provides comprehensive maintenance support, through its GE Engine Services operation, for GE and non-GE jet engines in service throughout the world. Visit GEAE online at www.geae.com.